Compact body scanner

ABSTRACT

Imaging systems and methods are provided for detecting object that may be hidden under clothing, ingested, inserted, or otherwise concealed on or in a person&#39;s body. An imaging assembly and mechanisms for vertically moving the imaging assembly may be configured to reduce the overall form factor of such imaging systems, while still retaining an ability to perform full/complete imaging of a subject. A calibration system assembly can be included, comprising a first calibration assembly and second calibration assembly to perform fine-grained adjustments to the positioning of the X-ray detector.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/911,735 filed Jun. 25, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 16/573,714 filed Sep. 17, 2019, and U.S.patent application Ser. No. 16/573,681 filed Sep. 17, 2019, which areeach continuations of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/246,405 filedJan. 11, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/709,213 filed Jan. 11, 2018, which are herebyincorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is generally related to radiant energy imaging.More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to imaging systemsthat use electromagnetic radiation to detect concealed security threats.

BACKGROUND

Criminals and terrorists frequently conceal security threats, such asweapons, explosives, contraband, illicit drugs, under their clothing andin body cavities, when entering security-controlled areas. Thesesecurity threats must be detected on persons entering such high securityareas as prisons, airports, government buildings, nuclear power plants,military bases, and the like. However, searching individuals by hand istime consuming, often ineffective, and objectionable to both the personbeing screened and the security officer performing the screening.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an imaging system, according to an implementation ofthe disclosure.

FIG. 2A illustrates an X-ray assembly of the imaging system of FIG. 1,according to an implementation of the disclosure.

FIG. 2B illustrates a connecting member of the imaging system of FIG. 1,according to an implementation of the disclosure.

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate a cross-sectional, side view and across-sectional, top down view, respectively of the imaging system ofFIG. 1, according to an implementation of the disclosure.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate a cross-sectional, side view and a perspectiveview, respectively of a lift mechanism of the imaging system of FIG. 1,according to an implementation of the disclosure.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate a cross-sectional, side view of an X-ray sourceand an X-ray detector of the imaging system of FIG. 1 during an imagingprocess, according to an implementation of the disclosure.

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate a cross-sectional, side view of an X-ray sourceand an X-ray detector of the imaging system of FIG. 1 during an imagingprocess, according to an implementation of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a process of performing an imaging scan, according toan implementation of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates an aligned state of the output of the collimator andthe active region of the X-ray detector array, wherein the fan-beam ofX-rays is properly aligned with the X-ray detector in accordance withembodiments of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 9A illustrates an example first calibration assembly in accordancewith embodiments of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 9B illustrates an example vertical slider assembly in accordancewith embodiments of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 9C illustrates an example calibration system assembly in accordancewith embodiments of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 9D illustrates the example calibration system assembly of FIG. 9Cin a low state in accordance with embodiments of the technologydisclosed herein.

FIG. 9E illustrates the example calibration system assembly of FIG. 9Cin a high state in accordance with embodiments of the technologydisclosed herein.

FIG. 9F illustrates the example calibration system assembly of FIG. 9Cin a leftward tilt state in accordance with embodiments of thetechnology disclosed herein.

FIG. 9G illustrates the example calibration system assembly of FIG. 9Cin a rightward tilt state in accordance with embodiments of thetechnology disclosed herein.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example centered state and an example high stateof the calibration system assembly of FIG. 9C in accordance withembodiments of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 11 illustrates another example X-ray assembly in accordance withembodiments of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 12 is an example method in accordance with embodiments of thetechnology disclosed herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example computing system that may be used inimplementing various features of embodiments of the disclosedtechnology.

These and other features, and characteristics of the present technology,as well as the methods of operation and functions of the relatedelements of structure and the combination of parts and economies ofmanufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of thefollowing description and the appended claims with reference to theaccompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification,wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in thevarious figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that thedrawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only andare not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein are imaging systems for detecting objects that may behidden under clothing, ingested, inserted, or otherwise concealed on orin a person's body. The details of some example embodiments of thesystems and methods of the present disclosure are set forth in thedescription below. Other features, objects, and advantages of thedisclosure will be apparent to one of skill in the art upon examinationof the following description, drawings, examples and claims. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, features, andadvantages be included within this description, be within the scope ofthe present disclosure, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

As noted above, situations exist where objects hidden on or in aperson's body, in or under clothing, etc. should be identified.Moreover, situations exist where the form factor of an imaging system isa consideration, e.g., when the imaging system must travel to a facilityin which it is to be used, when the imaging system must be moved fromone area (or room) to another through one or more doorways, etc.Accordingly, various embodiments of the present disclosure are directedto improvements to the form factor of an imaging system that leveragespenetrating radiant energy transmitted by an X-ray source moved across astationary object to an X-ray detector.

In particular, some embodiments may comprise an imaging system having aform factor that is smaller than conventional imaging systems, and thatcan be easily moved to and from different areas. For example, an imagingsystem configured in accordance with various embodiments may includeappropriately-sized component parts that result in an overall formfactor of the imaging system that allows the imaging system to bepushed/pulled through standard-sized doorway openings having limitedheight and width. Such appropriately-sized component parts may include aconnecting member (described in greater detail below) that supports anX-ray source and an X-ray detector distally located from each other andallows for alignment of the X-ray source and X-ray detector. Moreover,various embodiments effectuate a particular range of movement of theconnecting member (and the X-ray source and X-ray detector) that allowsa subject to be scanned vertically within the form factor of the imagingsystem.

In some embodiments, during the imaging process, a lift mechanism mayvertically translate the X-ray source and the X-ray detector joined bythe connecting member across the object being imaged. For example, thelift mechanism may include linear actuators attached to cables threadedon pulleys and balanced by counterweight devices to effectuate thevertical translation of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector. In someembodiments, the lift mechanism may raise and lower the X-ray source andthe X-ray detector at different rates which allows to angle or tilt theX-ray source relative to the X-ray detector and vice versa.

It should be understood that the systems and methods disclosed hereincan be applied to existing imaging systems and methods. In otherembodiments, an imaging system and method can be configured or designed(from the ground up) to operate in the disclosed manner. The imagingsystem comprising the X-ray source and the X-ray detector in accordancewith various embodiments may be controlled by an imaging circuitimplemented in or as part of the imaging systems' control unit. Theimaging circuit can receive data from one or more sensors or derive databased on sensor data regarding movement and alignment of the X-raysource and the X-ray detector in order to decide whether or not to theX-ray source and the X-ray detector are aligned and/or moving in asynchronous fashion.

FIG. 1 depicts an example imaging system 100 configured in accordancewith one embodiment. The imaging system 100 or components/featuresthereof may be implemented in combination with, or as an alternative to,other systems/features/components described herein, such as thosedescribed with reference to other embodiments and figures. The imagingsystem 100 may additionally be utilized in any of the methods for usingsuch systems/components/features described herein. The imaging system100 may also be used in various applications and/or permutations, whichmay or may not be noted in the illustrative embodiments describedherein. For instance, imaging system 100 may include more or lessfeatures/components than those shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments.Moreover, the imaging system 100 is not limited to the size, shape,number of components, etc. specifically shown in FIG. 1, although one ormore aspects of imaging system 100 may have particular size/shapeconstraints in certain embodiments, as these one or more aspects mayimpact the overall form factor of imaging system 100.

A number of commercially available imaging systems use electromagneticradiation to detect concealed objects and facilitate a body searchprocess. Conventional imaging systems may be configured to utilize lowerenergy radiation during an imaging process. For example, lower energyimaging systems may use radiant energies, such as millimeternon-ionizing electromagnetic radiation and/or other lower energyradiation, such as backscatter X-ray radiation. During the imagingprocess, lower energy radiation may pass through outermost layerscomprising an object, such as clothing, but is readily reflected off orscattered by any dense parts of the object. Accordingly, because lowerenergy imaging systems emit radiation that does not readily pass throughthe bulk of the object, they can only detect concealed threats hiddenunder the outermost layers only. For example, lower energy imagingsystems can detect security threats concealed under a person's clothing,rather than those hidden in body cavities.

Other conventional imaging systems may be configured to utilize higherenergy radiation. For example, higher energy radiation imaging systemsmay use radiant energies, such as X-ray radiation. While radiationlevels used by higher energy systems may be lower than the radiationlevels used in medical X-ray scanners, for example, the higher energyradiation is nonetheless transmitted through an object and is capturedbehind the object by a detector. For example, a continuous beam of X-rayradiation may be transmitted across an object being examined during animaging process. A detector may capture the X-ray radiation and generateoptical signals which are converted into electrical signals by aphotodiode array within the detector. The electrical signals are thentransmitted to a computing system that displays an image comprising thetransmitted electrical signals and/or recorded via image recordingequipment. By virtue of detecting radiant energy that is transmittedthrough the object rather than only measuring radiation that isreflected from the object, as the case may be with lower energy imagingsystems, imaging systems using higher energy radiation (e.g.,transmission X-ray radiation) can detect security threats concealed in apersons' body cavity, rather than those under a person's clothing.

Conventional imaging systems utilizing higher energy radiation may beconfigured in a number of ways. One such example of a conventionalimaging system is an imaging system that comprises an X-ray sourceconfigured to emit a vertical beam of X-rays toward avertically-oriented X-ray detector. During the imaging process, both theX-ray source the X-ray detector are configured to remain stationarywhile a subject is moved through the imaging system horizontally (e.g.,by being placed on a conveyor belt). However, moving the subject throughthe imaging system not only necessitates a large imaging system, it alsoresults in a number of operational problems (e.g., safety of a movingsubject).

Another example of a conventional imaging system is one that comprisesan X-ray source positioned at a midpoint level, relative to a stationarysubject, and an X-ray detector positioned behind the stationary subject.During the imaging process, the X-ray source is configured to rotateabout a horizontal axis while the X-ray detector is configured to movevertically. Because the X-ray source is not translated with the X-raydetector, but rather rotates, the X-ray beam emitted by the X-ray sourceenters the subject at an angle and thus traverses an excessively longpath, especially when scanning lowermost and uppermost portions of thestationary subject. The excessively long path length traversed by theangled X-ray beam may prevent imaging of some essential body cavities(e.g., abdomen) and cause poor threat detection. Further, the long pathlength results in a number of motion synchronization issues between theX-ray source and the X-ray detector which also affect the quality of theimages generated during the imaging process.

Yet another example of a conventional imaging system is one thatcomprises an X-ray source that is vertically translated with the X-raydetector in a synchronized fashion about a stationary object.Translating the X-ray source with the X-ray detector causes the X-raybeam to enter the subject horizontally, rather than at an angle,resulting in improved threat detection, as alluded to above, andimproved image quality due to reduced geometric distortion. However, theconventional imaging systems that vertically translate the X-ray sourcewith the X-ray detector are known to be heavy, bulky, and not easilytransportable without extensive disassembly or mechanical liftingequipment.

An example imaging system having a form factor that is smaller thanconventional imaging systems may be implemented as illustrated inFIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the imaging system 100 comprises a frameencased within a housing mounted on a base assembly 112 which definesthe width and length of the imaging system 100. The housing may houseone or more imaging components configured to facilitate transmissionX-ray imaging, one or more moving components configured to effectuatemovement of the one or more imaging components, and/or other components.In some embodiments, the frame may comprise a metal scaffoldingconfigured to provide structural support and/or framework for theimaging components and the movement components of the imaging system100, as described in greater detail below.

In some embodiments, the base assembly 112 may include opposing firstand second sides 103, 105. In some embodiments, the housing may comprisean X-ray source compartment 120 and X-ray detector compartment 118mounted on the first and second sides 103, 105 of the base assembly 112,respectively. For example, the X-ray source compartment 120 may house anX-ray source and the X-ray detector compartment 118 may house an X-raydetector.

In some embodiments, the housing may comprise a connecting compartment122 mounted between the first and second sides 103, 105 of the baseassembly 112. For example, the connecting compartment 122 may bepositioned between to the X-ray source compartment 120 and the X-raydetector compartment 118. In some embodiments, the connectingcompartment 122 may house a connecting member configured to join theX-ray source housed in the X-ray source compartment 120 to the X-raydetector housed in the X-ray detector compartment 118, as described indetail below. In some embodiments, the connecting member may providesupport, stabilize, and align the X-ray source with the X-ray detectorduring the imaging process.

In some embodiments, the X-ray source compartment 120, the X-raydetector compartment 118, and the connecting compartment 122 of thehousing and the base assembly 112 of the imaging system 100 may eachcomprise an exterior and interior surface. The exterior and interiorsurfaces may be formed using the same or different material(s). Forexample, materials used to form the exterior surfaces of the X-raysource compartment 120, the X-ray detector compartment 118, theconnecting compartment 122, and the base assembly 112 may includelead-lined steel, honeycomb aluminum, plastic and/or other such materialconfigured to absorb X-ray radiation. By virtue of using the specifiedmaterials, the imaging system 100 may provide a physical shielding forscattered X-ray radiation emitted from an object during the imagingprocess (more commonly known as radiation scatter) to protect others inthe immediate vicinity from radiation scatter is provided. In someembodiments, materials used to form the interior surfaces of the X-raysource compartment 120, the X-ray detector compartment 118, theconnecting compartment 122, and the base assembly 112 may includestructurally sound materials, such as a carbon-fiber composite, whichare transparent to X-ray radiation.

In some embodiments, the housing of the imaging system 100 may bedefined by at least three sides. Two sides may be formed by the X-raysource compartment 120 and X-ray detector compartment 118 mounted on thefirst and second sides 103, 105 of the base assembly 112, respectively,and a third side defined by the connecting compartment 122 mountedbetween the first and second sides 103, 105 of the base assembly. Afourth side may include an opening opposite the connecting compartment122. The boundaries of the opening may be defined by the X-ray sourcecompartment 120 and X-ray detector compartment 118 that extend towardsthe opening.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may comprise an interiorspace 119, formed atop of the base assembly 112 and surrounded by thethree ends of the housing, as alluded to earlier. The interior space 119may be fully enclosed by the three sides and only partially enclosed bythe fourth side to allow ingress/egress from the imaging system 100. Forexample, the interior space 119 may be fully enclosed on three sides bythe X-ray source compartment 120, the X-ray detector compartment 118,and the connecting compartment 122. The fourth side partially enclosingthe interior space 119 may comprise a side compartment (not shown),positioned opposite of the connecting compartment 122. In someembodiments, the side compartment may comprise a door (not shown)configured to enclose the interior space 119. For example, the door canbe configured as a sliding door or a standard hinged door that opens andcloses and provides access to the interior space 119 of the imagingsystem 100. In some embodiments, the door may be operably attached tothe X-ray source compartment 120 and/or the X-ray detector compartment118. In some embodiments, the door may be configured to slide betweenthe X-ray source compartment 120 and the X-ray detector compartment 118.

In some embodiments, the interior space 119 may be fully and/orpartially enclosed by a top cover (not shown) configured to enclose theinterior space 119 from the top. In some embodiments, the top cover maybe configured to be fully and/or partially removable. For example, thetop cover may be removed to allow the imaging of an object which heightmay exceed the height 132 of the imaging system 100, as will bediscussed in detail below.

In some embodiments, the interior space 119 may comprise a hollow cavityconfigured to receive a subject during the imaging process, as will bedescribed in greater detail below. As used herein in some embodiments,the term “subject” may refer to an object that is being scanned by theimaging system 100, such as an inanimate object. As discussed in greaterdetail below, the object may also comprise a person, such as an inmate,a suspected criminal, a terrorist, or a person entering an area of highsecurity (e.g., an airport).

In some embodiments, the base assembly 112 and the housing of theimaging system 100 mounted on top of the base assembly 112 may havereduced dimensions as compared to conventional imaging systems. Forexample, a width, height, and length of the one or more components maybe sized so as to allow the imaging system 100 to pass through astandard-sized doorway (e.g., to accommodate a large person during animaging process, or to ease the placement of an object onto the baseassembly 112).

The dimensions of the imaging system 100 in this example include a width130, a length 134, and a height 132. In some embodiments, the width 130of the imaging system 100 may be approximately 84 cm, the length 134 maybe approximately 182 cm, and the height 132 may be approximately 211 cm.In some embodiments, the base assembly 112 may include a height 173which may contribute to of the height 132 of the imaging system 100. Forexample, the base assembly 112 may be approximately 10 cm high.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may be configured to betransported. For instance, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1, theimaging system 100 may comprise at least four wheels or casters 114,mounted on the exterior surface of the base assembly 112. As imagingsystem 100 is moved, each of the casters 114 may roll, facilitatingmovement of imaging system 100. It should be understood that variousembodiments contemplate the use of other mechanisms for moving imagingsystem 100, e.g., sliders, pads, and the like. For example, the imagingsystem 100 may be rolled through a doorway by engaging the casters 114.

In some embodiments, as alluded to above, the particular dimensions ofthe imaging system 100, such as the width and height 130, 132 may permittransportation of the imaging system 100 through standard doorways (ornon-standard doorways having smaller dimensions). By virtue of the widthand height 130, 132 of the imaging system 100 being less than a widthand height of a standard-sized doorway, respectively, the imaging system100 can fit through the standard-sized doorway of most commercialbuildings. For example, a standard-sized doorway in a commercialbuilding may be approximately 86 cm wide and approximately 213 cm high.Accordingly, because the width 130 and height 132 of the imaging system100 is approximately less than 84 cm and less than 211 cm, respectively,the particular dimensions of the imaging system 100 permit the imagingsystem 100 to be transported through the standard-sized commercialdoorway.

Furthermore, while the imaging system 100 may be configured to betransported through standard-sized doorways of most commercialbuildings, the particular dimensions of the imaging system 100 may alsoaccommodate a person of larger than average dimensions during theimaging process. For instance, a large person may have a width andheight of approximately 80 cm and 200 cm, respectively. Accordingly, thedimensions of the imaging system 100 of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1 exceed the dimensions of the large person to accommodate theimaging process. For example, the dimensions of the imaging system 100may exceed the dimensions of a large person by ten percent. Notably,while the imaging system 100 is large enough to accommodate the imagingof a large person it still has a form factor smaller than theconventional imaging systems. For example, conventional imaging systemsare often dimensioned to substantially exceed the width and height ofthe person being scanned. Accordingly, by virtue of greatly surpassingthe dimensions of the person being scanned, conventional imaging systemmay have to be transported in modules and reassembled upon arrival.

As alluded to above, various embodiments of imaging system 100 may havea form factor that allows the imaging system 100 to be transportedwithin some establishments (e.g., government facilities) having doorwayswith reduced dimensions compared to other commercial, standard-sizeddoorways. For example, prison doorways may have height of approximately200 cm. In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may have dimensionsso as to permit transportation through doorways that are approximately200 cm high. For example, the height 132 of the imaging system 100 maybe less than 200 cm. As described in greater detail below, the imagingsystem may comprise a lift mechanism that may temporarily extend theheight 132 of the imaging system 100 during the imaging process in orderto accommodate a person whose height exceeds 200 cm.

In some embodiments, the one or more exterior surfaces of the housing ofthe imaging system 100 may comprise one or more markings and/ordecorative features 150. For instance, in some embodiments, the exteriorsurface of the X-ray component 120 may comprise markings indicating theradiographic features (e.g., the strength of the X-ray) associated withthe imaging system 100. In some embodiments, the one or more exteriorsurfaces of the imaging system 100 may comprise an identification (e.g.,a name) of the facility that is utilizing the imaging system 100. Insome embodiments, the one or more exterior surfaces of the housing ofthe imaging system 100 may comprise one or more decorative features suchas decorative feature 150 used to enhance cosmetic appearance of imagingsystem 100. In some embodiments, the one or more exterior surfaces ofthe housing of the imaging system 100 may comprise any or all of theforegoing markings, decorative features, or other relevant elements aswould become apparent to one skilled in the art upon reading the presentapplication.

Imaging Process

In some embodiments, an object being imaged by the imaging system 100may be placed between the X-ray source compartment 120 and the X-raydetector compartment 118. For example, as shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 1, the object being examined is a person 110 who enters theinterior space 119 of the imaging system 100 by stepping onto a floor116 affixed to the interior surface of the base assembly 112.Alternatively, a person using a walker, crutches, or a wheelchair mayalso be placed onto the floor 116 by utilizing a ramp or other suchcomponents configured to facilitate such placement.

As alluded to above, in some embodiments, the person 110 may access theinterior space 119 of the imaging system 100 by entering through theopening in the housing defined by the X-ray source compartment 118 andthe X-ray detector compartment 120. As alluded to above, in someembodiments, the person 110 may access the interior space 119 of theimaging system 100 by opening and/or sliding the door configured tofully and/or partially enclose the interior space 119. Upon entering theinterior space 119, the person may be positioned to face the X-raysource compartment 118. In some embodiments, the person can bepositioned to face the X-ray detector compartment 120. Once the person110 is properly positioned, the door may be closed, and the imagingprocess may be initialized. In some embodiments, during the operation ofthe imaging system 100, the person 110 may be instructed to standmotionless.

In some embodiments, as alluded to above, the small form factor of theimaging system 100 may prevent and/or alleviate difficulties associatedwith accessing the interior space 119. That is, the particulardimensions of the base assembly 112, such as the height 173, mayminimize the distance relative to the floor on which the imaging system100 may be placed. For example, the person 110 may need to step on andoff the floor 116 of the base assembly 112 during the imaging process.By virtue of the reduced height 173 of the base assembly 112, ascompared to conventional imaging systems, the person may need toovercome a relatively short distance.

In some embodiments, the duration of the imaging process may range fromapproximately 0.5 to 5 seconds. Conventional imaging systems typicallyperform the imaging process in approximately 8 to 10 seconds. Uponcompleting the imaging process, and as discussed in greater detailbelow, the image may be generated and transmitted to be examined forconcealed threats. In some embodiments, the door may be opened, and theperson may exit the imaging system 100 by stepping off the floor 116 ofthe base assembly 112 thereby completing the imaging process.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may be operated by anoperator by entering one or more user commands via a control interface.For example, the operator may initiate an imaging process by entering anappropriate command via the control interface of a the control panel 124or other associated control interface.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may be configured to beoperated from a remote location. For example, the operator may initiatethe imaging process by entering an appropriate command via a controlinterface within a computing platform (not shown) communicativelycoupled to the imaging system 100 located in a different physicallocation than the computing platform. The operator may both initiate theimaging process and view one or more images generated by the imagingsystem 100 from the computing platform.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may be operatedautomatically. For example, upon detecting that an object has beenplaced onto the floor 116 of the base assembly 112, the imaging processmay be initiated. The images generated during the automatic imagingprocess may be transmitted to the computing platform.

X-Ray Assembly

FIG. 2A illustrates an example X-ray assembly 200 of the imaging system100. The X-ray assembly 200 comprises an X-ray source 202, an X-raydetector 204, and a connecting member 206. As alluded to earlier, and asillustrated in FIG. 1, the X-ray source 202 may be housed within theX-ray source compartment 120. The X-ray detector 204 may be housedwithin the X-ray detector compartment 118, and the connecting member 206may be housed within the connecting compartment 122.

X-Ray Source

As noted previously, the X-ray source 202 may be configured to emit acontinuous beam of higher energy X-ray radiation captured by the X-raydetector 204 to facilitate detection of concealed objects (e.g., in bodycavities). For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, X-ray source 202 maycomprise an X-ray generator (e.g., Monoblock® generator) capable ofproducing a beam of X-rays with a maximum energy of at least 120-180 keVand a maximum tube current of at least 0.1-10 milliamperes. In someembodiments the X-ray source 202 may have a height 248. For instance,and as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the height 248 of the X-ray source 202may be approximately 40 cm.

During the imaging process, the X-ray source 202 is translatedvertically across the object being imaged. Because the emitted X-rayradiation must be captured by the X-ray detector 204, the X-ray source202 and the X-ray detector 204 must be aligned during the translationalmovement. Maintaining alignment may require stabilizing the X-ray source202 and the X-ray detector 204 to maintain substantially the samerelative position of these two components during the imaging process.

In some embodiments, X-ray source 202 may be mounted onto the connectingmember 206 to assist with maintaining substantially the same position ofthe X-ray source 202 relative to the X-ray detector 204 and aligning theX-ray source 202 with the X-ray detector 204 during the imaging process.For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, the X-ray source 202 may bemounted on a first arm 251 of the connecting member 206. The first arm251 of the connecting member 206 may be distally located from a secondarm 261 of the connecting member 206.

In some embodiments, a filter wheel containing one or more filters maybe placed in close proximity (within a few centimeters) to the output ofthe X-ray source 202 so as to intercept and filter the X-ray beamgenerated by the X-ray source 202. For example, the one or more filtersmay be formed of aluminum and copper of varying thicknesses (e.g., Al1-10 mm, Cu 0.1-1 mm).

Collimator

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may comprise at least onecollimator (e.g., collimator 213 illustrated in FIG. 3A) to control thespatial extent of a stream of X-ray photons emitted from a focal spot ofthe X-ray source. By limiting the spatial extent of the X-ray beam(e.g., by confining the beam of X-rays to a particular area) the imagequality may be improved and the radiation dose reduced. A single-slitcollimator that shapes the X-ray beam to a thin sheet or “fan-beam”, isone such example of a collimator. Another example is a multi-slitcollimator having a number of openings or through holes formed side byside, each for guiding and passing the X-ray radiation. Typically, acollimator is fabricated using a high-density metal and/or a refractorymetal capable of absorbing, rather than passing the radiation through,such as tungsten or lead. For example, the collimator may be configuredto have an approximately 0.25 mm slit through which the X-ray radiationpasses.

In some embodiments, the collimator may be configured to remain in afixed position relative to the X-ray source 202. In some embodiments,the collimator may be configured to move about the X-ray source 202. Inyet other embodiments, a plurality of collimators may be used. Forexample, a first collimator may be a fixed-slit collimator while asecond collimator may be a rotating collimator.

In some embodiments, the collimator may be placed adjacent the X-raysource 202 to intercept and collimate the beam of X-rays into a fan-beamof X-rays 208 corresponding to the dimensions of the X-ray detector 204.By virtue of collimating the beam of X-rays, the beam of X-rays may beconfined to an area having particular width and height. For example, thecollimated fan-beam of X-rays 208 is confined to an area approximately30 cm wide and approximately 2 mm high at the X-ray detector 204 side,while being approximately 0.25 mm high as it is emitted from the X-raysource 202. Accordingly, although the beam of X-rays expands in bothvertical and horizontal directions as it propagates, by using thecollimator, as alluded to above, X-ray radiation is confined to anactive area 210 of the X-ray detector 204, described in detail below.Accordingly, the collimator allows to confine the X-rays to beintercepted by the X-ray detector 204 having a narrow active area whichin turn results in a decreased size of the X-ray detector 204 andcontributes to the form factor of the imaging system 100, as describedbelow.

X-Ray Detector

As alluded to above, the X-ray detector 204 may be configured to capturethe beam of X-ray radiation emitted from the X-ray source 202 andgenerate optical signals which are converted into electrical signals bya photodiode array included in the X-ray detector 204. During theimaging process, the X-ray detector 204 is translated vertically inalignment with the X-ray source 202.

In some embodiments, particular dimensions of the X-ray detector 204 maynot only contribute to maintaining alignment between the X-ray detector204 and the X-ray source 202 and/or stabilizing the X-ray detector 204during the imaging process, but also to the overall form factor of theimaging system 100.

Reduced size and weight of the X-ray detector 204, as compared to X-raydetectors used in conventional imaging systems, is one example which canresult in greater stability during the vertical translational movementalluded to earlier. This is because the connecting member 206 onto whichthe X-ray detector 204 is mounted may be susceptible to vibrationaland/or other mechanical forces during the vertical translationalmovement. These mechanical forces acting upon the connecting member 206may result in misalignment between the X-ray detector 204 and the X-raysource 202 and cause poor image quality. Conventional imaging systemsthat do not consider the form factor focus on stabilizing the X-raydetector (i.e., reducing the mechanical forces acting upon theconnecting member which bears the X-ray detector) by increasing the sizeof the connecting member. However, this may result in an increasedweight and size of the imaging system itself. For example, conventionalimaging systems typically weigh approximately 900 kg and has dimensionsof approximately 2.4 m wide, 2.4 m long, and 2.4 m high. Of particularconcern is the inability to transport such large imaging systems withoutextensive disassembly and/or without using mechanical lifting equipment.

In some embodiments, the X-ray detector 204 may have a height 216 andwidth 218. For instance, and as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the height andwidth 216, 218 of the X-ray detector 204 may be approximately 10 cm and80 cm, respectively. In some embodiments, the width 218 of the X-raydetector 204 may approximately correspond to the width 130 of theimaging system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, the X-ray detector 204 may comprise at least onedetector array, an example of which can be a photodiode array. In someembodiments, a detector array may comprise one or more photodiodearrays. In some embodiments, the photodiode array may be a linear array.For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the X-ray detector 204 maycomprise a detector array comprising at least one array of photodiodes.In some embodiments, the at least one photodiode array of the X-raydetector 204 may comprise a plurality of individual photodiodes. Forexample, the at least one photodiode array of the X-ray detector 204 maycomprise 640 photodiodes.

In some embodiments, each of the photodiodes within the photodiode arraymay have an attached scintillation material (e.g., cadmium tungstate orcesium iodide) and have particular dimensions. For example, individualphotodiodes within the one or more photodiode array of the X-raydetector 204 may be approximately 1.6 mm high and approximately 1.6 mmwide. In some embodiments, the X-ray detector 204 may compriseapproximately 40 photodiode arrays, each containing 16 photodiodes, fora total of 640 photodiodes. In some embodiments, all of the photodiodearrays of the X-ray detector 204 may each be approximately 71 cm long.

In some embodiments, the collimated fan-beam of X-rays 208 may passthrough an aperture that confines the dimension and movement of theX-ray beams 208 to the X-ray detector 204. In some embodiments, thecollimated fan-beam of X-rays 208 may be confined to a particular areawithin the X-ray detector 204. For example, the collimated fan-beam ofX-rays 208 may be confined to an active area 210 of the X-ray detector204. The active area 210 of the X-ray detector 204 may be defined by thephotodiode array. For example, the X-ray source 202 may generate acollimated single beam of X-rays which may only require a narrow activearea 210. A narrow active area 210 may in turn result in the X-raydetector 204 having reduced dimensions and/or weight. As alluded toabove, reducing the size and/or weight of the X-ray detector 204 resultsin maintaining the form factor of the imaging system 100.

Photodiode Array

In some embodiments, the at least one photodiode array of the X-raydetector 204 may be illuminated by the fan beam of X-rays 208 generatedby the X-ray source 202. In some embodiments, the photodiodes andaccompanying scintillators, within the photodiode array may absorbradiant energy generated by the X-ray source 202. Upon absorbing a levelof radiant energy, the photodiodes may generate an electrical signal. Insome embodiments, the electrical signal generated by the photodiodes mayresult in an output data transmitted via analog and/or digitalelectronic circuits. The output data may comprise image data beingcommunicated to a computing platform for image display.

In some embodiments, linescan geometry may be utilized to read all thephotodiodes within each of the one or more photodiode array of the X-raydetector 204. In some embodiments, image data may be processed byimaging processing software or a program configured to generate adigital image of the scanned object.

In some embodiments, a readout speed (i.e., the speed at whichindividual photodiodes with the photodiode array are processed) of thephotodiode arrays may be determined by a microprocessor controller. Forexample, all of the 640 photodiodes within the 40 photodiode arrayswithin the X-ray detector 204 may be read out in approximately 3milliseconds. The readout speed may determine the imaging process time.For example, as alluded to above, the photodiode arrays within the X-raydetector 204 may be read out in approximately 3 milliseconds. Becausethe imaging system 100 is configured to read out 1333 “scan lines”during the imaging process, if follows that the total scan time will beapproximately 4 seconds long. Individual scan lines may correspond to aresolution of the resulting image generated during the imaging process.

Accordingly, the X-ray detector 204 must complete the readout of all 640photodiodes before reading out the next scan line. That is, the read-outspeed of 3 milliseconds for all the photodiodes within the X-raydetector 204 can be completed before the next vertical displacement.This can be achieved by ensuring the height of the scan line isapproximately the same as the height of the photodiode array. Forexample, given an average height of a person is approximately 200 cm,each scan line is approximately of 1.6 mm high which corresponds to theheight of the photodiode array (i.e., approximately 1.6 mm).

In some embodiments, X-ray detector 204 may comprise an X-ray detectorassembly including a back member, a first member 226, and a secondmember 224, such that the first and second members 226, 224, are coupledto each side of the back member 228. Alternatively, the first and secondmembers 224, 226, and back member 228 may be a single unit/formed as asingle unit. The X-ray detector assembly may have a height 216 and awidth 218. For instance, and as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the height andwidth 216, 218 of the X-ray detector assembly may be approximately 10 cmand 80 cm, respectively.

In some embodiments, the first and second members 226, 224 of the X-raydetector assembly may be coupled to either side of back member 228 at aright angle. Accordingly, the X-ray detector 204 comprising the X-raydetector assembly, defined by the back member 228 and the first andsecond members 226, 224, may be “U-shaped”. In some embodiments, thefirst and second members 226, 224 may be attached to either side of backmember 228 at an obtuse angle. By virtue of using the X-ray detectorassembly comprising the first and second members 226, 224, attached toeither side of the back member 228, the X-ray detector may be configuredto house the at least one photodiode array having the same and/orgreater length than the width 218 of the X-ray detector assembly.

For instance, and as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the photodiode array may bedimensioned to be as long as an average width of a person (e.g.,approximately 76 cm), while still fitting within the dimensions of thewidth 218, which may be smaller than the average width of the person.That is, the at least one photodiode array housed in the first andsecond members 226, 224 of the X-ray detector assembly can detect theX-rays emitted by the X-ray source 202 by virtue of being “wrapped”around at least one portion of the subject's body. By housing the atleast one photodiode array within the U-shaped X-ray detector 204, asalluded to above, the X-ray detector assembly can be approximately onlyten percent smaller than the imaging system 100. That is, due to theU-shape of the X-ray detector 204, the entirety or requisite portion ofthe fan-shaped X-ray beam 208 needed for complete imaging of a subjectis captured, despite the vertical and horizontal expansion of the X-raybeam. This, in conjunction with use of the aforementioned collimator(which confines the X-ray radiation to an active area 210 of the X-raydetector 204) results in improved X-ray detection within the small formfactor of the imaging system 100.

For example, during the imaging process, the person 110 may stand facingthe X-ray source 202 while the person's 110 back may be turned to theX-ray detector 204, or vice versa (e.g., facing the X-ray detector 204).Accordingly, one-half of the subject's frontal plane may be covered orencompassed by X-ray detector 204 (e.g., by the first and second members226, 224 and the back member 228) by virtue of the X-ray detector 204having the U-shape, as alluded to earlier. That is, the at least onephotodiode array housed in the U-shaped X-ray detector 204 may captureemitted radiation by covering or encompassing almost the entire subjectdespite the fact that the back member 228 is shorter than the width ofthe subject being imaged. Further, by virtue of housing the photodiodearray 210 within the first and second members 226, 224, rather thanhousing the photodiode array 210 only within the back member 228 thesmall form factor of the imaging system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 may beachieved.

In some embodiments, the X-ray detector 204 need not be linear in shape,but rather can be angled so as to conform to the shape of the baseassembly 112 of the imaging system 100. By virtue of the X-ray detector204 conforming to the shape of the base assembly 112, rather than beinglinear, allows the base assembly to have a reduced size, whichcontributes to the small form factor of the imaging system 100. Inparticular, and referring back to FIG. 2A, it can be appreciated thatmembers 226, 224 of X-ray detector assembly are configured to besubstantially perpendicular to the back member 228. However, in otherembodiments, side members 226, 224 may be angled relative to the backmember 228. For example, and referring now to FIG. 3B, side members 224,226 may be angled to conform to the angled cutouts in which side members224, 226 may rest when not performing an imaging process.

Safety Monitoring System

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may comprise one or moreradiation shielding components. The radiation shielding components maybe formed from a radiation absorbent material such as lead, tungsten,and/or other such material capable of absorbing radiant energy emittedby the X-ray source during the imaging process. For example, and asillustrated in FIG. 2A, the X-ray detector 204 may comprise one or moreradiation shielding components at each first and second member of theX-ray detector 204. During the imaging process, the X-ray source 202 isdirected at the X-ray detector 204 and one or more radiation shieldingcomponents at each of end of the X-ray detector 204. Because thecollimator limits the horizontal width of the fan-beam of X-rays 208emitted by the X-ray source 202 to slightly less that the width of theX-ray detector 204, the occurrence of non-illuminated photodiodes ateach end of the X-ray detector 204 may indicate that the fan-beam ofX-rays 208 is properly aligned with the X-ray detector 204 in ahorizontal direction. That is, this provides a way to ensure that thesides (or requisite portions) of the fan-beam of X-ray 208 are beingintercepted and thereby blocked by the one or more radiation shieldingcomponents at each of the end of the X-ray detector 204.

Connecting Member

As noted previously, alignment between the X-ray source and the X-raydetector is maintained during the imaging process in order to obtain anaccurate image. Conventional imaging systems often maintain alignmentbetween an X-ray source and an X-ray detector source by virtue of one ofmore components supporting the X-ray source and the X-ray detector.However, these components are often heavy and large resulting in bulkyimaging systems that cannot be transported easily.

As alluded to above, in some embodiments, the connecting member 206 mayrigidly join the X-ray source 202 to the X-ray detector 204. In someembodiments, connecting member 226 may be formed from a substantiallyrigid material, such as steel or any other such material capable ofmaintaining a rigid shape.

As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the connecting member 226 may be “C-shaped”.For example, and as alluded to earlier, the X-ray source 202 may bemounted on the first arm 251 of the connecting member 206 while theX-ray detector 204 may be mounted on the second arm 261, opposite thefirst arm 251 of the connecting member 226. Conventionally, a connectingmember, similar to connecting member 206 illustrated in FIG. 2B, may beappropriately sized in order to maintain substantially the same positionof the X-ray detector and X-ray source during the imaging process andfacilitate alignment between the X-ray source and X-ray detector. Asalluded to earlier, because the collimated fan-beam of X-rays 208emitted by the X-ray source 202 is focused to a particular area theX-ray detector 204 (e.g., the active area 210), the X-ray detector 204need only be as narrow as the width and length of the fan-beam of X-rays208 (i.e., substantially smaller than the X-ray detector used inconventional imaging systems). By reducing the size of the X-raydetector 204, as contemplated in accordance with various embodiments,the connecting member can be configured to be lighter and have a formfactor that is smaller than a conventional connecting member, whichcontributes to the form factor of the imaging system 100. For example,the connecting member 206 may comprise a width 238, which may beapproximately 1.9 to 10 cm. In some embodiments, the width 238 of theconnecting member 206 may comprise the same width as the width of thesecond member 224 of the X-ray detector assembly, illustrated in FIG.2A, as discussed above. That is, the width 238 of the connecting member206 may be such that it would not increase the width 130 of the imagingsystem 100 illustrated in FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, during the imaging process the connecting member226 is configured to maintain alignment between the X-ray source 202 andthe X-ray detector 204. For example, as the X-ray source 202 and theX-ray detector 204 are raised and lowered, the alignment between theX-ray source 202 and X-ray detector is maintained by virtue of the rigidconnection provided by the connecting member 226. In some embodiments,using the connecting member 226 to maintain alignment between the X-raysource 202 and X-ray detector 204 during the imaging process, ratherthan relying on feedback sensors, for example, results in alignment witha lower margin of error (e.g., a margin of error up to 0.13 mm) comparedto conventional imaging systems. In some embodiments, maintaining rigidalignment between the X-ray source 202 and X-ray detector 204 reduces arisk of disruptions (e.g., distortions in the acquired image) during theimaging process.

Attachment Points

As alluded to earlier, during the imaging process, the X-ray assembly200 of the imaging system 100 is translated vertically. Often,conventional imaging systems raise and lower an X-ray assembly within animaging system frame by utilizing a lift mechanism which attaches to theX-ray assembly via a single attachment point (and thus uses a singleactuator). However, the single attachment point often causes the X-rayassembly to unintentionally twist causing misalignment between the X-raysource and the X-ray detector resulting in undesirable imagedistortions. As alluded to above, to compensate for these unintentionalmotions, conventional imaging systems focus on increasing the size ofthe connecting member resulting in bulky and large imaging systems toachieve a desired amount of stability in the X-ray assembly. Forexample, conventional imaging systems tend to rely on connecting membersthat have larger dimensions, are heavier, and are more difficult to moveand actuate.

In contrast, in some embodiments, the X-ray assembly 200 is raised andlowered by a lift mechanism which attaches to the X-ray assembly via atleast two individual attachment points. For example, and as illustratedin FIG. 2A, a first attachment point 214 may be mounted on the X-raydetector 204, and a second attachment point 212 may be mounted on theX-ray source 202. The first and second attachment points 212, 214, maybe coupled to a first and second linear actuators, respectively, asdescribed below.

The first and second attachment points 214, 212 may be positioned atopposite ends of the X-ray assembly 200, i.e., at or near a center ofmass of each of the X-ray detector 204 and the X-ray source 202,respectively. This configuration may reduce any potential mechanicalforces (e.g., stress forces) that the connecting member 206 mustovercome during the vertical translation movement. Accordingly, reducingany potential stress forces which the connecting member 206 mustovercome during the vertical translation movement, allows the connectingmember 206 to have a narrow width 238 while still providing stabilityand alignment during the imaging process, as described above. Further, areduction in size of the connecting member 206 allows the form factor ofthe imaging system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 to be maintained.

In yet other embodiments, using at least two attachment points resultsin actuating the X-ray detector 204 independently or at a different ratethan the X-ray source 202, as described further below.

Lift Mechanism

An example imaging system having a form factor that is smaller thanconventional imaging systems in which an X-ray assembly is translatedvertically may be implemented as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B. FIG. 3Aprovides a cross-sectional, side view of the imaging system 100. FIG. 3Bprovides a cross-sectional, top down view of the imaging system 100.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 comprises a lift mechanismcomprising one or more motors, one or more linear actuator devices, oneor more pulleys, one or more cables, one or more counterweight devices,and/or other components configured to lower and raise the X-ray assembly200 within a frame of the imaging system 100.

For example, the lift mechanism comprises the electric motors 256, 268illustrated in FIG. 3B, as a source of motive power. The motors 256, 268may be connected to an external power source (e.g., a wall outlet or apower storage device), and an inverter. The power storage device caninclude, for example, one or more batteries, capacitive storage units,or other storage reservoirs suitable for storing electrical energy thatcan be used to power one or more motors. When power storage device isimplemented using one or more batteries, the batteries can include, forexample, nickel metal hydride batteries, lithium ion batteries, leadacid batteries, nickel cadmium batteries, lithium ion polymer batteries,and other types of batteries.

In some embodiments, the motors 256, 268 may be controlled by amicroprocessor controller. The microprocessor controller may receivedata from one or more encoders mounted on the X-ray source 202 and theX-ray detector 204, respectively. The one or more encoders may transmitdata to the microprocessor controller related to the position and speedof the X-ray source 202 and the X-ray detector 204, respectively. Insome embodiments, microprocessor controller may be configured to alignthe X-ray detector 204 with the X-ray source 202 prior to the imagingprocess, as described below.

In some embodiments, the motive power generated by the motors 256, 268in communication with the one or more linear actuator devices may betransmitted to cables 252, 262 threaded on pulleys 254, 264, 266,respectively for actuating movement of the X-ray assembly 200. Forexample, the cables 252, 262 may comprise belts and/or and flexiblestraps. In some embodiments, the cables 252, 262 may comprise a crosssection that is approximately 1.27 by 0.32 cm. In some embodiments, alongitudinal surface of the cables 252, 262 may comprise one or moregroves configured to engage corresponding teeth on the one or morecorresponding pulleys (e.g., the pulleys, 254, 264, 266).

In some embodiments, the pulleys 254, 266, and 266 may comprise atoothed pulley, an idler pulley, and/or any such pulley configured toaccommodate the translational movement of the cables 252, 262. In someembodiments, the pulleys 254,264, 266 may comprise a pulley memberwherein rotation of the pulley member is provided about a substantiallyhorizontal axis, at least in one position of use.

In some embodiments, the linear actuator devices communicatively coupledto the motors 256, 268 may comprise a lift cylinder and a piston. Oneexample of the lift cylinder is a hydraulic device configured forapplying a required force. In come embodiments, the linear actuatordevices comprise at least one of a hydraulic cylinder, a servo-motor, ageared system, and a rack and pinion system. In some embodiments, thelift cylinder of the linear actuator devices may be in communicationwith the piston, which may have a moveable actuator arm. The motors 256,268 may generate and communicate a force to the lift cylinders drivingthe actuator arm linearly.

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism is configured to lower and raisethe X-ray assembly 200 within a frame 270. The frame 270 may compriseone or more vertical guides and/or channels. The one or more verticalguides or channels may be configured to provide a vertical path throughwhich the X-ray assembly 200 moves as it is being raised and lowered.For example, the X-ray source 202 and the X-ray detector 204 may movewithin vertical paths of the frame 270 as the X-ray assembly 200 israised and lowered. In some embodiments, the vertical paths of the frame270 through which the X-ray source 202 and the X-ray detector 204 movemay not have same dimensions. For example, the X-ray source 202 may movewithin the vertical path having a first height range, whereas the X-raydetector 204 may move with the X-ray source 202 but within the verticalpath having a second height range that exceeds the first height range,as described in detail below.

As alluded to earlier, the cables 252, 262 supporting the X-ray assembly200 during the imaging process may be attached to the individualattachment points 214, 212 mounted on the X-ray detector 204 and theX-ray source, respectively. For example, cable 252 comprises a firstterminus at the attachment point 214 mounted on the X-ray detectordevice 204, while cable 262 comprises a first terminus at the attachmentpoint 212 mounted on the X-ray source 202. The cables 252, 260 may besecured at the attachment points 214, 212 by any number of knownfasteners. For example, the one or more cables 252, 260 may be securedby standard rigging hardware feature such as an eye splice provided in asteel cable and sometimes referred to as a “molly hogan” or “dutch” eye.Such a feature may be wrapped around a protrusion on a device to belifted (e.g., the X-ray detector 204 and the X-ray source 202), therebyproviding for force-transmitting communication between the twocomponents.

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism comprises one or morecounterweight devices to facilitate the movement of the X-ray assembly200 by providing a counter-balancing mechanism that allows the X-rayassembly 200 to move efficiently and easily within the frame 270. Forexample, cable 252 may be threaded through the pulley 254 and extenddownwardly to interconnect with a counterweight device 250. Similarly,the cable 262 may be threaded through pulleys 266, 264, respectively,and extend downwardly to interconnect with a counterweight device 260.

In some embodiments, the counterweight devices 250, 260 may beconstructed from a plate of iron or other heavy metal. For example, thecounterweight device 250 may be approximately 30 cm long, 30 cm wide,and 1.9 cm deep, and have a weight approximately corresponding to theweight of the X-ray source 202 (e.g., 22 kg). Similarly, thecounterweight device 260 may be approximately 10 cm long, 30 cm wide,and 0.75 cm deep, and have a weight approximately corresponding to theweight of the X-ray detector 204 (e.g., 7.2 kg).

In some embodiments, as alluded to earlier, the lift mechanism isconfigured to raise and lower the X-ray assembly 200 by energizing themotors 256, 268 which power the linear actuator devices that actuate andtranslate the movement of the cables 252, 262 threated onto pulleys 254and 264, 266, respectively, to vertically translate the X-ray detector204 and the X-ray source 202. The weight of each of the X-ray detector204 and the X-ray source 202 being lifted may apply a force tocorresponding pulleys 254 and 264, 266 via the corresponding cables 252,262, respectively. The force applied via the cables 252, 262 may becountered by the counterweight devices 250, 260 interconnected with thecables 252, 262, respectively.

In some embodiments, the one or more counterweight devices may beconfigured to balance and/or maintain an upward pressure on the X-rayassembly 200 as the X-ray detector 204 and the X-ray source 202 aretranslated during the imaging process. An example imaging system havinga form factor that is smaller than conventional imaging systems in whicha lift mechanism comprises one or more balancing devices to facilitatemovement of an X-ray assembly may be implemented as illustrated in FIGS.4A-4B. FIG. 4A provides a cross-sectional, side view of the liftmechanism of the imaging system 100. FIG. 4B provides a perspective viewof the lift mechanism of the imaging system 100.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 4A, the lift mechanism maycomprise one or more cables supporting the X-ray assembly 200 andinterconnected with one or more balancing devices. For example, a cable252, attached to the X-ray detector 204, may be threaded through apulley 514 and extend downwardly to interconnect with a balancing device524. Similarly, cable 262, attached to the X-ray source 202, may beinterconnect with a counterweight device 522.

The one or more balancing devices may comprise a tension adjustmentmechanism configured to control the requisite force to pull the cablesconnected to the balancing devices. For example, the force required toraise or lower the X-ray source 202 and the X-ray detector 204 may becontrolled via the tension adjustment mechanism. In this example, eachof the balancing devices 524, 522 may have a tension adjustmentmechanism used to control the requisite force to pull the cables 252,262, respectively. As an alternative embodiment, the tension adjustmentmechanism may be configured to just hold the X-ray assembly 200suspended. In some embodiments, the one or more balancing devices maycomprise a manual adjustment mechanism, such as a screw adjustmentmechanism, configured to manually adjust the requisite force settings.

In some embodiments, the one or more balancing devices may be mounted atthe bottom of the frame of the imaging system 100. As alluded toearlier, one or more cables may support the X-ray source 202 and theX-ray detector 204 by running upwardly over one or more pulleys andextending downwardly to connect with one or more balancing devices. Forexample, one or more cables may be attached to the X-ray detector 204,run over one or more pulleys and interconnect with two balancing devicesmounted on the on the X-ray detector 204 side of the imaging system 100.Similarly, the X-ray source 202 may be supported by one or more cablesrunning over one or more pulleys and interconnecting with two balancingdevices on the X-ray source 202 side of the imaging system 100. In thisexample, the four balancing devices may be configured to support theweight of the X-ray assembly 200 during the translational movementnecessitated by the imaging process.

In some embodiments, each of the one or more balancing devices can beconstructed or configured similarly to a tool balancer. For example,tool balancers may include devices manufactured by Nasco Industries,such as model TBJ-1522. In some embodiments, these balancing devices mayemploy rotary springs in conjunction with a tapered cable drum toprovide a near constant force on a cable, regardless of the extension.

For example, and as illustrated in FIG. 4B, four balancing devices 524may be configured to support the weight of the X-ray assembly 200(illustrated in FIG. 2A) during the translational movement necessitatedby the imaging process. As alluded to earlier, the four balancingdevices 524 may be mounted at the bottom of the frame of the imagingsystem 100. For example, the four balancing devices 524 may be mountednear the base frame 602.

As previously noted, the imaging system may comprise the framesurrounded by a housing. In some embodiments, the frame may furthercomprise a number of individual support frames. For example, the imagingsystem 100 may comprise a base frame 602, an X-ray detector 204 sideupright frame 604, and an X-ray source 202 side upright frame 606. Insome embodiments, the base frame 602, the X-ray detector 204 sideupright frame 604, and the X-ray source-side upright frame 606 may beformed using a welded aluminum construction.

As previously noted, the one or more cables may support the X-ray source202 and the X-ray detector 204 by running upwardly over one or morepulleys and extending downwardly to connect with one or more balancingdevices. For example, the four balancing devices 524 may be configuredto support cables 512 running over four pulleys 514. In someembodiments, cables 512 may be attached to the X-ray detector 204, runover pulleys 514 and interconnect with two balancing devices 254 mountedon the on the X-ray detector 204 side of the imaging system 100.Similarly, the X-ray source 202 may be supported by cables 512 which mayattach to the connecting member 206 near the x-ray source 202, therebysupporting some of the weight of X-ray assembly.

In some embodiments, the cables 512 running downward from the pulleys514, may attach to a vertical member 450. The vertical member 450 may beconfigured to support a pulley 452. In some embodiments, a cable 454 mayextend from a rigid mount 456 near the base frame 602. For example, thecable 454 may run upward over a pulley 452, and then downward attachingto the connecting member 206 near the X-ray detector 204. In someembodiments, the vertical member 450 may be attached to movable slides305 of two vertically mounted linear actuators 303. In some embodiments,the connecting member 206 may be attached to movable slides 306 of twovertically mounted linear actuators 304.

In some embodiments, the balancing devices 524 may be configured tosupport the X-ray imaging assembly on the X-ray detector 204 side, bydirectly supporting the pulley 452 and cable 454. By directly supportingthe pulley 452 and the cable 454, the balancing devices 524 in turnsupport the X-ray assembly. By using four balancing devices 524 tosupport the weight of the X-ray assembly, the imaging system 100 can usefour linear actuators (e.g., 303, 304) to provide vertical movement ofthe X-ray imaging assembly.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may comprise one or morecomponents to stabilize the imaging system 100 and ensure the imagingsystem 100 is level with the floor on which it is standing. For example,the imaging system may comprise four leveling feet 608 configured tosupport the base frame 602. In some embodiments, the leveling feet 608may be configured to adjust the level of the imaging system 100.

As alluded to earlier, the imaging system 100 may comprise the floor 116affixed to the interior surface of the base assembly 112, illustrated inFIG. 1. Referring now to FIG. 4B, the imaging system 100 may compriseone or more components configured to support the floor on which thesubject stands during the imaging process. For example, one or moresupport member 610 may be attached to the base frame 602 and providesupport for the floor.

Synchronized Movement

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism, as described above, isconfigured to raise the X-ray assembly 200 in a synchronized fashion.That is, during the imaging process the movement of the X-ray source 204is synchronized with the movement of and the X-ray detector 204. Bysynchronizing the movement of the X-ray source 204 and the X-raydetector 204, the fan-beam of X-rays 208 is at the same verticalelevation as the active area 210 of the x-ray detector 204 during theimaging process. As alluded to earlier, the connecting member 206 thatconnects the X-ray source 204 and the X-ray detector 204 is configuredto provide additional stability and ensure alignment between the X-raysource 202 and the X-detector 204 during this synchronized movement.

Independent Movement

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism is configured to raise and lowerthe X-ray source 202 independently of the X-ray detector 204. Forexample, the lift mechanism raises and lowers the X-ray detector 204 byenergizing the motor 256 which powers the linear actuator that actuatesand translates the movement of cable 252 which threads on the pulley 254for actuating translation of the X-ray detector 204. Similarly, the liftmechanism raises and lowers the X-ray source 202 by energizing the motor268 which powers the linear actuator that actuates the translates themovement of cable 262 which threads on the pulleys 264, 266 foractuating translation of the X-ray source 202.

Further, as alluded to earlier, by virtue of using a single attachmentpoint and a single linear actuator, conventional imaging systems andthus cannot provide tilting of the individual imaging components (e.g.,the X-ray source and the X-ray detector). Because the X-ray source andthe X-ray detector must be aligned during the imaging process, the X-raysource must be moved to the uppermost part of the frame. By virtue ofhaving to move the X-ray source to the very top, conventional imagingsystems are required to be sized to accommodate the height rangetraversed by both the X-ray source and the X-ray detector whichcontributes to the height of the imaging system. Accordingly, theoverall height of the conventional imaging system is greater than thatof a standard doorway, which prevents this imaging system from beingtransportable through a standard doorway without extensive disassemblyand mechanical lifting equipment. Additionally, using a single linearactuator to raise and lower the X-ray assembly requires a much largerconnecting member, as alluded to earlier, which contributes to the formfactor of the imaging system.

In contrast, as alluded to above, the X-ray source 202 may move withinthe vertical path having the first height range, whereas the X-raydetector 204 may move with the X-ray source 202 but within the verticalpath having the second height range that exceeds that of the firstheight range. By virtue of the independent actuation of the X-ray source202 and the X-ray detector 204, the X-ray source 202 can be angled ortilted towards the X-ray detector 204 during the imaging process.Accordingly, rather than moving the X-ray source 202 to the lowermost oruppermost part of the imaging system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1, theX-ray source can be angled such that the emitted beam of X-ray isdirected toward the X-ray detector 204 even if the X-ray source 202 islower or higher than the X-ray detector 204. This allows the imagingsystem 100 to maintain its reduced dimensions which contributes to theoverall small form factor of the imaging system 100.

An example imaging system having a form factor that is smaller thanconventional imaging systems in which an X-ray source is translatedvertically independently of an X-ray detector may be implemented asillustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B. FIG. 5A provides a cross-sectional, sideview of the imaging system 100 with an X-ray source and an X-raydetector in a raised position. FIG. 5B provides a cross-sectional, sideview of the imaging system 100 with the X-ray source and the X-raydetector in a lowered position.

In some embodiments, by virtue of independent actuation of the X-raysource 202 and the X-ray detector 204, the X-ray source 202 can beangled or tilted towards the X-ray detector 204 during the imagingprocess. For example, when the X-ray source 202 is in a raised position350, as illustrated in FIG. 5A, the X-ray source 202 is tilted upwardand toward the X-ray detector 204. Similarly, when the X-ray source 202is in a lowered position 351, as illustrated in FIG. 5B, the X-raysource 202 is tilted downward and toward the X-ray detector 204.

In some embodiments, the X-ray source 202 may comprise a focal spot 241from which the fan-beam of X-rays 208 is emitted. The focal spot 241 maybe substantially equidistant from the edges of the X-ray source 202. Forexample, the focal spot 241 may be centrally located within the X-raysource 202 and include a distance 243 from either edge of the X-raysource 202.

Angling or tilting the X-ray source 202 upward allows the X-ray source202 to direct the fan-beam of X-rays 208 at the X-ray detector 204 toscan an uppermost portion of the object without having to raise theX-ray source 202 to the same level as the X-ray detector 204 (i.e., theX-ray source 202 is positioned lower than the X-ray detector 204). Asillustrated in FIG. 5A, by virtue of angling or tilting the X-ray source202 during the imaging process, the beam of X-rays 208, emitted from thefocal spot 241, is directed to the X-ray detector 204 without moving theX-ray source 202 to the uppermost portion of the imaging system 100.That is, the distance 243 need not be traveled by the X-ray source 202.

Similarly, angling or tilting the X-ray source 202 downward allows theX-ray source 202 to direct the fan-beam of X-rays 208 at the X-raydetector 204 to scan a lowermost portion of the object without having tolower the X-ray source 202 to the same level as the X-ray detector 204(i.e., the X-ray source 202 is positioned higher than the X-ray detector204). As illustrated in FIG. 5B, by virtue of angling or tilting theX-ray source 202 during the imaging process, the beam of X-rays 208,emitted from the focal spot 241, is directed to the X-ray detector 204without moving the X-ray source 202 to the lowermost portion of theimaging system 100. That is, the distance 243 need not be traveled whenthe X-ray source 202.

In some embodiments, the degree of tilt of the X-ray source 202 (e.g.,approximately 5 to 20 degrees) may only increase a path of the beam ofX-rays through the subject's body by a few percent. Because the degreeof tilt only slightly increases the X-ray path length, the resultingincrease in radiation from the increased path length of X-rays isnegligible. In contrast, in some conventional systems, the X-rays enterthe subject's body at a 45-degree angle which results in exposing thesubject to higher radiation levels.

Referring back to FIG. 2A to illustrate how tilting the X-ray source 202either upward or downward, allows the imaging system 100 to maintain theform factor smaller than conventional imaging systems. For example, theheight 216 of the X-ray detector 204 is approximately 10 cm, while theheight 248 of the X-ray source 202 is approximately 40 cm. As alluded toearlier, by virtue of angling or tilting the X-ray source 202 during theimaging process either upward or downward, the height 132 of the imagingsystem 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 is only affected by the height 216 ofthe X-ray detector 204. Accordingly, the imaging system 100 is able tomaintain a lower height 132 of which results in the imaging system 100to be transported through a standard doorway.

Referring back to FIGS. 5A-5B, in some embodiments, the motors 256, 266used for raising and lowering of the X-ray assembly 200 during theimaging process from the lowermost position 351 to the uppermostposition 350 may be configured to operate at different rates.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 may comprise a motioncontrol unit (not shown) configured to adjust individual rates at whichthe motors 256, 266 operate. For example, the individual rates at whichthe motors 256, 266 operate may be adjusted by one or more microprocesscontrollers. By controlling the rates at which the motors 256 266operate, the imaging system 100 may raise and lower the X-ray assembly200 with no rotation, with an accompanying rotation in one direction,with an accompanying rotation in an another (e.g., opposite) direction,or with any combination accompanying rotation.

In some embodiments, the motor 254 powering the movement of the X-raydetector 204 may operate at a rate of approximately twelve to fifteenpercent higher than the motor 266 powering the movement of the X-raysource 202. During the imaging process, and as illustrated in FIGS.5A-5B, the difference in rates at which the motors 254, 266 operateresults in the X-ray detector 204 traversing a distance that isapproximately twelve to fifteen percent greater than the distance of theX-ray source 202 in the same amount of time. That is because, thedistance that X-ray detector must traverse during the imaging process isapproximately 15 percent greater than the distance the X-ray source 202must traverse.

Extension Mechanism

As alluded to earlier, maintaining the small form factor can be a factorfor the transportability of the imaging system. Of particular importanceis ability to fit the imaging system through standard-sized doorwayswithout extensive disassembly. However, as alluded to earlier, somedoorways (e.g., prison doorways) may have one or more dimensions thatare smaller than that of a standard-size doorway (e.g. less than the 200cm). Another factor is the ability to image a person that may be tallerthan the standard-sized doorway. That is, the imaging system, inaccordance with one embodiment, has one height during transportation andanother height when imaging a person whose height is less than thedoorway through which the imaging system is being transported. One wayto accommodate both is by using a lift mechanism that can effectuate arange of movement that exceeds the height of the imaging system totemporarily raise the X-ray source and the X-ray detector. For example,the lift mechanism can be configured to raise the X-ray source and theX-ray detector during the imaging process to image a person whose heightexceeds that of the imaging system by utilizing one or more mechanisms(e.g., telescoping, scissor, etc.).

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate an example imaging system 600 (which may be anembodiment of imaging system 100) having a form factor that is smallerthan conventional imaging systems in which an X-ray source and an X-raydetector joined by a connecting component are translated verticallywithin the frame of the imaging system 600 via individual vertical pathsof varying height range may be implemented as illustrated in FIGS.6A-6B. FIG. 6A provides a cross-sectional, side view of the imagingsystem 600 with an X-ray source and an X-ray detector in a loweredposition. FIG. 6B provides a cross-sectional, side view of the imagingsystem 100 with the X-ray source and the X-ray detector in a raisedposition.

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism, as described above, isconfigured to raise the X-ray source 202 within a vertical path having afirst height range and raise the X-ray detector 204 within a verticalpath having a second height range which exceeds the first height range.In some embodiments, the vertical path within which the X-ray detector204 is raised may exceed the height of the imaging system 100. By virtueof the vertical path of the X-ray detector 204 exceeding the height ofthe imaging system 600, allows the imaging system 600 to perform theimaging of a subject that may otherwise be impossible due to heightconstrains of the imaging system 600 (e.g., the height of the person 101exceeding the height 132 of the imaging system 100 illustrated in FIG.1).

For example, at the beginning of the imaging process, the X-ray assembly200 (e.g., the X-ray source 202 and the X-ray detector 204), illustratedin FIG. 2A, is in a lowermost position 352, as illustrated in FIG. 6A.Similarly, at the end of the imaging process, the X-ray assembly 200 isin an uppermost position 350, as illustrated in FIG. 6B. Accordingly,the imaging system 600 may be configured to perform imaging of a person110 whose height exceeds the height 492 of the imaging system 100.

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism may be configured to raise theX-ray detector 204 beyond the height of a frame of the imaging system600 (e.g., to the uppermost position 350) only during the imagingprocess. That is, once the imaging process is completed, the X-raydetector 204 is lowered and returned to the lowermost position 352. Byvirtue of raising the X-ray detector 204 above the height of the imagingsystem 600 only during the imaging process, allows to transport theimaging system 600 through standard-sized doorways, as the height 492 ofthe imaging system 600 is not affected by this extension.

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism may comprise one or more movableslides, one or more motors, one or more linear actuator devices, one ormore pulleys, one or more cables, one or more counterweight devices, arigid mount, and/or other components configured to lower and raise theX-ray assembly 200 within the frame of the imaging system 600.

In some embodiments, the X-ray source 202 may be coupled to a movableslide 306. For example, the lift mechanism raises and lowers the X-raysource 202 by energizing a motor which powers a linear actuator device304 which actuates the movable slide 306 coupled to the linear actuatordevice 304. That is, the lift mechanism raises the X-ray source 202 froma first position 368 (illustrated in FIG. 6A) at the beginning of theimaging process to a second position 366 (illustrated in FIG. 6B) at theend of the imaging process by energizing a motor which powers a linearactuator device 304 which actuates and translates the movement of amovable slide 306 coupled to the linear actuator device 304.

In some embodiments, the X-ray detector 204 may be coupled to a cable454. For example, cable 454 may comprise a first terminus at anattachment point mounted on the X-ray detector 204. In some embodiments,the cable 454 may be threaded through a pulley 452 and extend downwardlyto interconnect with a rigid mount 456.

In some embodiments, the rigid mount 456 may be mounted within a linearactuator device 303 comprising a non-moving frame. In yet otherembodiments, the rigid mount 456 may be mounted within any stationarylocation within the frame of the imaging system 600.

In some embodiments, the pulley 452 may be mounted to a vertical member450 positioned within the frame of the imaging system 100. For example,the pulley 452 may be mounted to an upper end of a vertical member 450,while the lower end of vertical member 450 may be rigidly attached to amovable slide 305 of the linear actuator 303. In some embodiments, thevertical member 450 may be approximately 38 cm long.

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism raises the X-ray detector 204from a first position 480 (illustrated in FIG. 6A) at the beginning ofthe imaging process to a second position 482 (illustrated in FIG. 6B) byenergizing a motor which powers the linear actuator 303 which actuatesand translates the movement of the movable slide 305 coupled to thelinear actuator device 303.

In some embodiments, at the beginning of the imaging process, themovable slide 305 is positioned at a first position 470, the pulley 452is positioned a first position 471, and the X-ray detector 204 ispositioned at a first position 480. As alluded to above, during theimaging process the lift mechanism raises the X-ray detector 204 bytranslating the movable slide 305 from the first position 470 to asecond position 472. As the movable slide 305 is translated, the pulley452 (mounted to a vertical member 450 which is rigidly attached to themovable slide 305, as explained above) moves from the first position 471to a second position 473.

By virtue of powering the linear actuator 303, which verticallytranslates the movable slide 305 from the first position 470 to thesecond position 472, the pulley 452 is forced to move from the firstposition 471 to the second position 473. The translational movement ofthe movable slide 305 in turn lifts the X-ray detector 204 from thefirst position 480 to the second position 482. By virtue of the liftmechanism, the distance which the movable slide 305 traverses isapproximately 107 cm while the distance that the X-ray detector 204traverses is approximately 214 cm. Accordingly, the distance traversedby the X-ray detector 204 is approximately double that of the movableslide 305.

Automated Alignment

In some embodiments, prior to initiating the imaging process, theimaging system 100 of FIG. 1 may be configured to align the X-raydetector 204 with the X-ray source 202. For example, the X-ray detector204 may be positioned in a lowermost position 351, as illustrated inFIG. 4B. The lift mechanism, as described above, actuates the X-raydetector 204 independently of the X-ray source 202 until the beam ofX-rays emitted by the X-ray source 202 is intercepted and absorbed bythe one or more photodiode arrays of the X-ray detector. For example,the lift mechanism may comprise one or more linear actuators mounted ateach end of the X-ray detector 204 configured to move the X-ray detector204 with respect to the connecting member 206. The translationalmovement of the X-ray detector 204 may be slight and may include movingat least one end of the X-ray detector 204. In some embodiments, thelift mechanism is configured to rotate the X-ray detector 204 relativeto a horizontal axis.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 is configured to detect asignal comprising a signal strength corresponding to one or morephotodiodes within the one or more photodiode arrays of the X-raydetector 204 absorbing a particular amount of radiant energy emitted bythe X-ray source 202. That is, the stronger the signal the greater theamount of radiant energy is absorbed. A stronger signal is indicativethat the alignment between the X-ray detector 204 and the X-ray source202 is likely achieved. The X-ray detector 204 may be translated (e.g.,raised or lowered) until the signal strength of a threshold level isdetected. In some embodiments, this process may be repeated iterativelyuntil the X-ray detector 204 and the X-ray source 202 are aligned.

In some embodiments, once the desired signal strength is reached, theimaging system 100 is configured to note the alignment between the X-raydetector 204 and the X-ray source 202 that resulted in the desiredsignal strength. That is, the imaging system 100 is configured toutilize the resulting alignment between the X-ray detector 204 and theX-ray source 202 during the imaging process.

Identity Verification

As alluded to earlier, imaging system 100 may be used to detectconcealed security threats on persons entering high security areas(e.g., airports, prisons, etc.). As described above, the imaging system100 may generate images that reveal concealed threats in or on aperson's body. Because these images may later be introduced as physicalevidence in various government actions instituted against the subject,management of acquired information (e.g., image data), including accessand chain-of-custody issues must be considered. Of particular concern,is ability to confirm and/or verify subject's identity using image dataalone. For example, the subject may subsequently dispute that the imageshowing a concealed threat is indeed him or her.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 of FIG. 1 may include one ormore features configured to assist in personal identity verification,alluded to above. For example, the imaging system 100 may be configuredto capture information related to the subject. The information mayinclude visual information (e.g., image, video, audio), biometricinformation (e.g., fingerprint, facial recognition, retina scan, etc.),and/or other similar information.

In some embodiments, one or more input devices configured to capturesubject-related information may be coupled to the imaging system 100.For example, the one or more input devices may include a biometric inputdevice and a visual input device. In some embodiments, the biometricinput device may comprise a digital device, such as a fingerprintscanner or retinal scanner configured to obtain a scanned image of asubject's retina. The visual input device may comprise a device such asan image camera, and/or other device configured to capture information,including but not limited to visual information, video information, andaudio information.

In some embodiments, the one or more input devices may be coupled to orintegrated with the control panel 124 and/or other interface within theimaging system 100. For example, prior to entering the interior space119 of the imaging system 100, a person 110 may be positioned in frontof the control panel 124 coupled to an image camera such that an imageassociated the person 110 may be captured. In some embodiments, the oneor more input devices may be integrated into the one or more componentsof the housing of the imaging system 100 (e.g., the X-ray sourcecompartment 120). For example, a visual input device may capture a videoof a subject contemporaneously with the image data acquisition duringthe imaging process.

In some embodiments, information generated by the imaging system 100,including image data and information captured by the one or more inputdevices may be marked, timestamped, annotated, and/or otherwiseprocessed such that all information generated by the imaging system 100can be synchronized, aligned, annotated, and/or otherwise associatedtherewith. For example, video information captured by an image sensor ofthe input device may be synchronized with image data generated by theX-ray detector. Subject-related information generated by the one or moreinput devices (and/or information based thereon) may be stored and/ortransferred in electronic files. Capturing subject-related informationand associating it with the image data, as alluded to above, may allowto verify subject's identity. For example, while the image data alonemay not be enough to conclusively establish identity of the subject,using a subject's image in conjunction with the image data may providethe necessary confirmation.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating example operations that can beperformed to actuate of a lifting mechanism to effectuate an imagingprocess. In some implementations, the operations may be implemented inone or more processing devices (e.g., a digital processor, an analogprocessor, a digital circuit designed to process information, a centralprocessing unit, a graphics processing unit, a microcontroller, ananalog circuit designed to process information, a state machine, and/orother mechanisms for electronically processing information). The one ormore processing devices may include one or more devices executing someor all of the operation in response to instructions storedelectronically on one or more electronic storage mediums. The one ormore processing devices may include one or more devices configuredthrough hardware, firmware, and/or software to be specifically designedfor execution of one or more of the operations.

In an operation 701, a control signal or instruction to initiate theimaging process is received. For example, as described above, an imagingprocess can be initiated by a user-initiated command entered through acontrol panel 124 or other interface. The user command made via thecontrol panel 124 is translated to imaging process initiation within theimaging system 100.

In an operation 702, a step to ensure an X-ray source is in geometricalignment with an X-ray detector is performed. For example, as describedabove, the X-ray detector 204 is independently actuated to be verticallytranslated in either direction to intercept a fan-beam of X-rays 208emitted by the X-ray source 202. As the X-ray detector 204 interceptsthe fan-beam of X-rays, the X-ray detector 204 may detect a signal of aparticular signal strength. The X-ray detector 204 may be translatediteratively until a signal of a threshold signal strength is detected,which suggests that the X-ray source 202 and the X-ray detector 204 arein optical alignment.

In an operation 703, the X-ray source and the X-ray detector areindependently actuated to move to a position ready to with each other toobtain signals associated with imaging a lowermost portion of a subject.For example, as described above, to obtain signals associated withimaging the lowermost portion of the subject, the X-ray detector 204 ispositioned at a first level while the X-ray source 202 is positioned ata second level, the second level being higher than the first level.While at the second level, the X-ray source 202 is angled downwardly soas to emit the beam of X-rays toward the X-ray detector 204 ready toobtain the signals associated with imaging the lowermost portion of thesubject.

In an operation 704, the X-ray source and the X-ray detector are movedin conjunction with each other such that the X-ray source is translatedvertically at a first rate and the X-ray detector is translatedvertically at a second rate relative to each other to obtain signalsassociated with imaging a subject, with the exception of the lowermostand uppermost portions of the subject. For example, as described above,the X-ray detector 204 is raised by energizing a motor 256 which powersa linear actuator that actuates and translates the movement of a cable252 attached to the X-ray detector 204 which threads on a pulley 254 foractuating translation of the X-ray detector 204. Similarly, the X-raysource 202 is raised by energizing a motor 268 which powers a linearactuator that actuates and translates the movement of cable 262 whichthreads on pulleys 264, 266 for actuating translation of the X-raysource 202.

In an operation 705, the X-ray source and the X-ray detector areindependently actuated to end the translation 704 at position suitableto obtain signals associated with imaging an uppermost portion of asubject. For example, as described above, to obtain signals associatedwith imaging the lowermost portion of the subject, the X-ray detector204 is raised to a third level while the X-ray source 202 is raised to afourth level, the fourth level being lower than the third level. Whileat the fourth level, the X-ray source 202 is angled upwardly so as toemit the beam of X-rays toward the X-ray detector 204 to obtain theoptical signals associated with imaging.

In an operation 706, image data corresponding to an image of the subjectscanned during the imaging process is received. For example, asdescribed above, during the imaging process optical signals generated bythe photodiode array within the X-ray detector 204 are converted intoelectrical signals. The electrical signals result in image datatransmitted via analog and/or digital electronic circuits.

As discussed above with respect to FIG. 2A, the at least one collimator213 is configured to collimate the beams of X-rays from the X-ray source202 into a fan-beam of X-rays 208 corresponding to the dimensions of theX-ray detector 204. Collimating the beams X-rays in this way enables adecreased size of the X-ray detector 204 by confining the X-rays to anarrow active area. Accordingly, the alignment between the fan-beam ofX-rays 208 and the narrow active area (i.e., the photodiode array 210)is important to ensure accurate imaging. FIG. 8 illustrates an alignedstate of the output of the collimator 213 and the active region of theX-ray detector array 200, wherein the fan-beam of X-rays 208 is properlyaligned with the X-ray detector 204. In various embodiments, the activearea may extend along the X-ray detector 204 and onto each of the firstmember 224 and the second member 226. When aligned, the fan-beam ofX-rays 208 is also detected by the portions of the photodiode array (notshown in FIG. 8) extending onto the first member and the second member.

If the fan-out beam of X-rays 208 is not properly aligned with theactive area of the X-ray detector 204, inaccurate or partial images maybe obtained, limiting the effectiveness of the imaging system. Invarious embodiments, the misalignment occur in one or more directions.As a non-limiting example, the fan-out beam of X-rays 208 may be rotatedabout the x-axis such that the fan-out beam 208 intersects with theX-ray detector assembly 204 at a point above or below the active area ofthe X-ray detector 204, and/or the fan-out beam of X-rays 208 may berotated about the z-axis such that the fan-out beam 208 intersects withthe X-ray detector assembly 204 above the active area 210 on a firstside of the X-ray detector assembly 204 and below the X-ray detectorassembly 204 below the active area 210 on a second side of the X-raydetector assembly 204. In various embodiments, the first side of theX-ray detector assembly 204 can extend from the midplane MP of the backmember 228 to a distal end of the first member 224 and the second sideof the X-ray detector assembly 204 can extend from the midplane MP ofthe back member 228 to a distal end of the second member 226.

To account for this type of potential misalignment, a calibration system800 can be disposed within the connecting member 206 and configured tomove the X-ray detector assembly 204 with respect to the connectingmember 206. In the illustrated embodiment, the calibration system 800comprises a first calibration assembly 801 and a second calibrationassembly 802. Each of the calibration assemblies 801, 802 are configuredto move the X-ray detector assembly 204 in order to position the activearea of the X-ray detector assembly 204 to align with the fan-out beamof X-rays 208 across the entire length of the active area. Although theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 8 shows two calibration assemblies 801,802 within the calibration system 800, in other embodiments a pluralityof calibration actuators can be included depending on the resolution ofadjustment required for a particular implementation.

FIG. 9A is a closer view of an example first calibration assembly 801depicted in FIG. 8. Although discussed with respect to the firstcalibration assembly 801, the discussion is applicable to the secondcalibration assembly 802 or other calibration actuators included withinthe calibration system. For ease of illustration, the connecting member206 of FIG. 8 is omitted to make it easier to see the differentcomponents of the first calibration assembly 801. Although omitted, thefirst calibration assembly 801 is disposed within the interior void ofthe connecting member 206. In various embodiments, the first calibrationassembly 801 can comprise a base plate 901, a calibration actuator 902,a lever arm 904, and a detector mover 905. The base plate 901 can beused to secure the first calibration assembly 801 to an interior surfaceof the bottom plate of the connecting member 206 (not shown in FIG. 9A).In various embodiments, the base plate 901 can comprise a bottom portion901 a and a vertical portion 901 b. The bottom portion 901 a can includea plurality of connector openings 906 configured to enable a pluralityof fasteners to secure the bottom portion 901 a of the base plate 901 tothe interior surface of the bottom side of the connecting member 206.The vertical portion 901 b can include a plurality of connector openings907 configured to enable a plurality of fasteners to secure the verticalportion 901 b to a detector side of the connecting member 206, thedetector side being the side of the connecting member 206 facing theX-ray detector assembly 204. In various embodiments, the bottom portion901 a and the vertical portion 901 b can be integrated into a singlebase plate 901, while in other embodiments the bottom portion 901 andthe vertical portion 901 b can comprise separate components thattogether represent the base plate 901.

In various embodiments, the vertical portion 901 b can include anopening 908 enabling a first portion 409a of the lever arm 904 tooperatively connect to a second portion 409b of the lever arm 904. Invarious embodiments, the opening 908 can be dimensioned based on thesize and design of the lever arm 904 to facilitate a rotational radiusof the lever arm 904 when pushed or pulled by the calibration actuator902. One or more lever arm stops 909 can extend from a surface of thevertical portion 901 b into the interior of the connecting member 206,configured to stop the motion of the lever arm 904. In the illustratedembodiment, the opening 908 is depicted as a circular opening, in otherembodiments the opening 908 can have lever arm stops integrated therein.As a non-limiting example, the opening 908 can be configured such thatthe first portion 904 a of the lever arm 904 is capable of only rotatingalong an arc of the opening 908.

A calibration actuator 902 can be configured to move the first portion904 a of the lever arm 904 along a range of distances from a firstposition to a second position. In various embodiments, the firstposition can be defined by the a first lever arm stop and the secondposition can be defined by a second lever arm stop, with the firstportion 409a capable of moving between the first position and the secondposition. In various embodiments, the calibration actuator 902 cancomprise a servo motor or other linear actuator, similar to theactuators discussed above with respect to the translational mechanism. Adistal end of the push rod 902 a of the calibration actuator 902 can besecured to the first portion 904 a of the lever arm 904 to transfer thelinear motion of the push rod 902 a to a rotational motion of the leverarm 904. In some embodiments, the push rod 902 a of the calibrationactuator 902 can include one or more protrusions (not shown in FIG. 9A)configured to stop the push rod 902 a from extending further thannecessary to push the first portion 904 a of the lever arm 904 to thesecond position or retract further than necessary to pull the firstportion 904 a of the lever arm 904 to the first position.

In various embodiments, the calibration actuator 902 can include amotion generator 902 b configured to extend or retract the push rod 902a. In various embodiments, the motion generator 902 b can be electrical,pneumatic, or hydraulic. A controller (not shown in FIG. 9A) iscommunicatively coupled to the motion generator 902 b and configured tocontrol operation of the motion generator 902 b. As a non-limitingexample, the controller can be configured to apply one or more controlsignals to the motion generator 902 b to activate either the electrical,hydraulic, or pneumatic actuation components of the motion generator 902b to change the position of the push rod 902 a. In various embodiments,the controller can be configured to receive data from one or moresensors (not shown in FIG. 9A) indicative of an orientation of thefan-out beam of X-rays 208. Based on this information, the controllercan generate the one or more control signals to move the push rod 902 ain order to position the X-ray detector assembly 204. The calibrationactuator 902 can be secured to the bottom portion 901 a of the baseplate 901 by an anchor plate 903. In various embodiments, thecalibration actuator 902 may be fixed in position relative to the anchorplate 903, while in other embodiments the calibration actuator 902 maybe pivotable around a fastener relative to the anchor plate 903.

When the calibration actuator 902 moves the push rod 902 a from thefirst position to the second position, the lever arm 904 rotates suchthat the second portion 904 b of the lever arm 904 rotates in an upwarddirection (from a point on the x-axis to a point on the y-axis). Thedetector mover 905 is configured to contact a detector support 950disposed on a back side of the back member 228 of the X-ray detectorassembly 204. In various embodiments, the detector mover 905 can beconfigured to maintain contact with the detector support 950 throughoutthe rotation of the second portion 904 b of the lever arm 904. As anon-limiting example, the detector mover 905 can comprise abearing-based component configured such that the detector mover 905 canrotate around the point of connection with the second portion 904 b ofthe lever arm 904 without changing its operative connectivity to thedetector support 950. The motion of the X-ray detector assembly 204caused by movement of the second portion 904 b of the lever arm 904shall be further discussed with respect to FIGS. 9D-9G.

To facilitate the motion of the X-ray detector assembly 204, a verticalslide assembly 920 can be included within the calibration system 800.FIG. 9B illustrates an example vertical slide assembly 920 in accordancewith embodiments of the technology disclosed herein. The examplevertical slide assembly 920 is provided for illustrative purposes onlyand should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the technology toonly the depicted embodiment. For ease of discussion, the calibrationassembly 801, 802 is omitted from FIG. 9B to enable an easier view ofthe example vertical slide assembly 920. As shown in FIG. 9B, thevertical slide assembly 920 can comprise a base plate 921, a slide mount922, a slide track 923, a slider 924, and a detector plate 925. Althoughdiscussed with respect to the example vertical slide assembly 920, invarious other embodiments one or more additional components van beincluded which are not explicitly shown in FIG. 9B.

The base plate 921 can include a plurality of connection openings 921 a.In various embodiments, the amount of connection openings 912 a can bedetermined based on the size of the base plate 921. The plurality ofconnection openings 921 a are configured to accept one or morefasteners, including but not limited to nuts, bolts, screws, or othertypes of fasteners. In various embodiments, the base plate 921 can beconnected to an exterior surface of the bottom side of the connectingmember 206 (not shown in FIG. 9B). A slide mount 922 can be connected tothe base plate 921 and configured to extend in the vertical direction(i.e., along the y-axis) a distance d from the base plate 921. Invarious embodiments, the distance d can be equivalent to a height of adetector-facing side of the connecting member 206, while in otherembodiments the distance d can be smaller than the height of thedetector-facing side of the connecting member 206. The slide mount 922can comprise metal, metal alloy, plastic, or other material, of acombination thereof. In various embodiments, the slide mount 922 can bemade of a stiff material.

In various embodiments, the slide track 923 can be operatively connectedto the slide mount 922. The slide track 923 provides a structure thatcan be operatively connected to a movable slider (e.g., the slider 924)to facilitate a controlled movement of the slider 924. In variousembodiments, the slide track 923 can be secured to the slide mount 922by one or more methods, including but not limited to fasteners, epoxy,glue, weld, or other securing means. In various embodiments, the slidetrack 923 can comprise a single integrated component, while in othercomponents the slide track 923 can comprise one or more components thatoperatively comprise the slide track 923. As a non-limiting example, theslide track 923 can comprise a first rail and a second rail, eachseparate from each other. The first rail and the second rail can beindependently to the slide mount 922. In some embodiments, the slidetrack 923 can be integrated into the slide mount 922 to comprise amonolithic component. Within the slide track 923, a slider 924 can beinserted such that a portion of the slide track 923 is configured tooperatively connect to a portion of the slider 924 such that the slider924 is secured to the slide track 923. In various embodiments, theslider 924 can comprise one or more channels or grooves disposed on anedge of each side of the slider 924 that are configured to couple to oneor more corresponding grooves of the slide track 923.

The slider 924 can be operatively connected to a detector plate 925. Thedetector plate 925 is configured to operatively connect the calibrationsystem 800 to the back member 228 of the X-ray detector assembly 204. Invarious embodiments, each vertical slider assembly 920 can have anassociated detector plate 925, while in other embodiments the slider 924of each vertical slider assembly 920 can be connected to the samedetector plate 925. In this manner, the movement of the X-ray detectorassembly 204 can be constrained to move in the vertical direction (alongthe y-axis) and not in the horizontal direction (along the x-axis).

FIG. 9C illustrates an example calibration system assembly 900 inaccordance with embodiments of the technology disclosed herein. Theexample calibration system assembly 900 is provided for illustrativepurposes only and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of thetechnology to the depicted embodiment. The calibration system assembly900 illustrates the calibration system 800 discussed with respect toFIGS. 8, 9A, and 9B operatively connected to the X-ray detector assembly204 (comprising the back member 228, first member 224, and the secondmember 226). As shown in FIG. 9C, each vertical slider assembly 920-1,920-2 can be operatively connected to a common detector plate 925. Invarious embodiments, the detector plate 925 can include one or moreconnection regions 940 configured to provide one or more connectorfeatures to secure the back member 228 of the X-ray detector assembly204 to the detector plate 925.

In various embodiments, the calibration assemblies 801, 802 can beconfigured in the same orientation. As depicted in FIG. 9C, the firstcalibration assembly 801 and the second calibration actuator 802 arepositioned such that the push rod 902 a of the calibration actuator 902is configured to extend to the right along the x-axis (i.e., toward thesecond member 226), while in other embodiments the calibrationassemblies 801, 802 can be configured to extend the push rod 902 a tothe left along the x-axis (i.e., toward the first member 224). In otherembodiments, the second calibration actuator 802 can be configured in areverse orientation such that the push rod 902 a of the calibrationactuator 902 extends along the x-axis to the left (i.e., toward thefirst member 224).

As discussed above, the calibration system 800 is capable of moving theX-ray detector assembly 204 to account for misalignment of the fan-outbeam of X-rays 208. The calibration system 800 is capable of moving theX-ray detector assembly 204 to align with the out-of-plane fan-out beamof X-rays 208. FIGS. 9D-9G illustrate positions of the calibrationsystem assembly 900 discussed with respect to FIG. 9C. The depictedembodiments of FIGS. 9D-9G are provided for illustrative purposes onlyand should not be interpreted as limited to only the illustratedpositioning. FIG. 9D illustrates the calibration system assembly 900 ina low state. The low state represents the lowest distance thecalibration system 800 is configured to move the X-ray detector assembly204 in the downward vertical direction (along the y-axis). In variousembodiments, the low state can comprise the first lever arm 904-1 of thefirst calibration assembly 801 and the second lever arm 904-2 of thesecond calibration actuator 802 are each in a first position 961-1,961-2 (generally, “the first positions 961,” collectively, “the firstposition 961”). In the depicted embodiment, the first position 961-1 ofthe first calibration assembly 801 comprises the push rod 902 a extendedto contact the distal lever arm stop, and the first position 961-2 ofthe second calibration actuator 802 comprises the push rod 902 aretracted to contact the proximal lever arm stop. The terms “distal” and“proximal” are in reference to the anchor plate 903 of the calibrationassemblies 801, 802. When in the first positions 961, the X-ray detectorassembly 204 is positioned at its lowest point in reference to theconnecting member 206 (not shown in FIG. 9D). In this way, if thefan-out beam of X-rays 208 (not shown in FIG. 9D) intersects the X-raydetector assembly 204 below the active area, the calibration system 800can lower the X-ray detector assembly 204 (and, accordingly, the activearea 210) such that the active area 210 is aligned with the out-of-planefan-out beam of X-rays 208.

If the fan-out beam of X-rays 208 is out-of-plane such that the beam 208intersects the X-ray detector assembly 204 above the active area 210,the calibration system 800 can move the X-ray detector assembly in anupward vertical direction to align the active area 210 and theout-of-plane beam 208. FIG. 9E illustrates the calibration system 800 ina high state. In the high state, the calibration system 800 isconfigured to move the X-ray detector assembly 204 to its highestposition relative to the connecting member 206. In various embodiments,the high state can comprise the first lever arm 904-1 of the firstcalibration assembly 801 and the second lever arm 904-2 of the secondcalibration actuator 802 are in a second position 962-1, 962-2(generally, “the second positions 962,” collectively, “the secondposition 962”). The second positions 962 can comprise each push rod 902a of the calibration assemblies 801, 802 being in the opposite state asthe first positioned 961. As a non-limiting example, the push rod 902 aof the first calibration assembly 801 can be retracted such that thefirst lever arm 904-1 contacts the proximal lever arm stop of the firstcalibration assembly 801.

In various embodiments, the calibration system assembly 900 can have acentered state where both push rod 902 a of the calibration assemblies801, 802 are extended such that the lever arms 904 are positioned at amiddle point between the first and second lever arm stops of thecalibration assemblies 801, 802. The middle point can be a pointequidistant from the first lever arm stop and the second lever arm stop.In various embodiments, the calibration system assembly 900 can beconfigured such that the upward and/or downward vertical movement can bewithin a range of distances equivalent to a range of +/−0.1-degrees to+/−20-degrees in the pitch of the fan-out beam of X-rays 208 from theplane of the centered state. FIG. 10 illustrates the centered state andan example high state of the calibration system assembly 900 discussedwith respect to FIGS. 9A-9E in accordance with embodiments of thetechnology disclosed herein. The example is provided for illustrativepurposes only and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of thetechnology disclosed to only the depicted embodiment. For ease ofdiscussion, only the movement of the back member 228 of the X-raydetector assembly 204 is shown, and the difference in the positioning ofthe back member 228 is exaggerated.

As shown in FIG. 10, the centered state CS occurs where the fan-out beamof X-rays 208 _(CS) is at a 0-degree angle (i.e., perpendicular to theback member 228 _(CS). In the depicted example, the fan-out beam ofX-rays 208 is out-of-plane with the centered state back member 228 _(CS)in the upward vertical direction at an angle θ. In various embodiments,the angle θ can be a high-state angle θ_(HS) such that the fan-out beamof X-rays 208 _(HS) is directed above the centered state CS. In variousembodiments, the high-state angle θ_(HS) can be equal to the centeredstate CS +0.1- to 20-degrees. The calibration system discussed withrespect to FIGS. 8-9E can be configured to move the back member 228 fromthe centered state 228 _(CS) to the high state 228 _(HS), so that thehigh-state fan-out beam of X-rays 208 _(HS) intersects the active area210 of the high state back member 228 _(HS). Where the angle θ isnegative relative to the centered state CS (i.e., the angle θ_(LS)), thecalibration system can be configured to move the back member from thecentered state 228 _(CS) to a low state 228 _(LS) (not shown in FIG.10).

In various embodiments, the X-ray source 202 and the calibration systemassembly 900 can operate to provide coarse and fine alignment,respectively, of the X-ray fan-out beam 208 and the active area 204 ofthe X-ray detector 204 to account for tolerance build up. Elements ofassemblies each can have their own mechanical and/or performancetolerances. When assembled, these tolerances can cause a cumulativeeffect on the assembly. Such built-up tolerances can result in acumulative effect that causes the part to fall outside of theperformance levels of the assembly as designed. In various embodiments,the calibration system assembly 900 can be utilized to account fortolerance build up by allowing for fine adjustment of the X-ray detector204 position. As a non-limiting example, the X-ray source 202 can berotated to move the X-ray fan-out beam 208 in a vertical direction toaccount for variance in the vertical alignment of the X-ray source 202and the X-ray detector 204. Due to built up tolerances, however, therotation of the X-ray source 202 may not result in proper alignment ofthe X-ray fan-out beam 208 and the active area 210. The calibrationsystem assembly 900 can be used to provide fine-grained adjustment ofthe positioning of the X-ray detector 204 to overcome the effect oftolerance build up.

In some embodiments, the fan-out beam of X-rays 208 can be out-of-planethrough rotation around the z-axis. FIGS. 9F and 9G illustrate the tiltpositions of the calibration system assembly 900 in accordance withembodiments of the technology disclosed herein. The depicted embodimentsof FIGS. 9F and 9G are provided for illustrative purposes only andshould not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the technology toonly the depicted embodiments. As shown in FIG. 9F, in some embodimentsthe fan-out beam of X-rays 208 may be emitted on a tile such that a leftside 981 of the beam 208 falls below the active area of the X-raydetector assembly 204, while the right side 982 of the beam 208 fallsabove the active area of the X-ray detector assembly 204. The left side981 can extend from a midpoint MP of the X-ray detector assembly to apoint along the negative x-axis to the left side of FIG. 9F, and theright side 982 can extend from the midpoint MP to a point along thepositive x-axis to the right side of FIG. 9F. To compensate for thistilt in the fan-out beam of X-rays 208, the calibration system 800(comprising the first calibration assembly 801 and the secondcalibration assembly 802) can be positioned such that the left side 981of the X-ray detector assembly 204 is positioned below the right side982 of the X-ray detector assembly 204.

The illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9F depicts the maximum leftward tiltof the calibration system assembly, where the first calibration assembly801 is set at the first position 904-1 while the second calibrationactuator 802 is set at the second position 962-2. In this way, the rightside 982 of the X-ray detector assembly 204 is at the high state whilethe left side 981 of the X-ray detector assembly 204 is at the lowstate. Different leftward tilt positions are possible over the range ofmotion of the first lever arm 904-1 from the first position 961-1 to aposition lesser than the position of the second lever arm 904-2. As anon-limiting example, when the second lever arm 904-2 is positioned atthe centered position (i.e., equidistant from the first lever stop andthe second lever stop of the second calibration actuator 802) theleftward tilt can occur over the range of the first lever arm 904-1 fromthe first position 961-1 to the centered point. Where the lever arm 904are set at an equivalent corresponding position (i.e., both sides 981,982 of the X-ray detector assembly 204 are even) then no tilt occurs.FIG. 9G illustrates the opposite situation, wherein the X-ray detectorassembly 204 is in a maximum rightward tilt.

In various embodiments, one or more sensors can be disposed on the X-raydetector assembly 204 to identify the misalignment of the fan-out beamof X-rays 208. FIG. 11 illustrates an example X-ray assembly 1100 inaccordance with embodiments of the technology disclosed herein. Theexample X-ray assembly 100 is similar to the X-ray assembly 200discussed with respect to FIG. 2A. Where references are common betweenfigures it should be interpreted that the discussion of such referencesare applicable to all figures including those references unlessexpressly stated otherwise. As shown in FIG. 11, a plurality of X-raysensors 1101 can be disposed above and below the active area 210. Theplurality of X-ray sensors 1101 can be used to determine when thefan-out beam of X-rays 208 are out-of-plane with the active area 210 ofthe X-ray detector assembly 204. In some embodiments, the plurality ofX-ray sensors 1101 can be dimensioned such that the plurality of X-raysensors 1101 disposed above the active area can detect the position ofthe fan-out beam of X-rays 208 from the active area to a maximum highstate and the plurality of X-ray sensors 1101 disposed below the activearea can detect the position of the fan-out beam of X-rays 208 from theactive area to a maximum low state, similar to the high state and lowstate discussed above with respect to FIGS. 9A-9G. In some embodiments,an angle sensor (not shown in FIG. 11) can be included within the X-rayassembly 1100 to sense the angle of the X-ray source 202 compared to acentered state (wherein the X-ray source 202 is configured to emit thefan-out beam of X-rays 208 at a 0-degree angle to the centered state.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example method 1200 in accordance withembodiments of the technology disclosed herein. The example method 1200is provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be interpretedas limiting the scope of the technology to only the depicted embodiment.In various embodiments, the method 1200 can be performed by one or morecontrollers communicatively coupled to the calibration system assembly900 discussed with respect to FIGS. 9A-9G. At operation 1201, amisalignment of the fan-out beam of X-rays can be detected. In variousembodiments, the detection can comprise receiving sensor data from oneor more alignment sensors of the X-ray detector assembly, similar to theX-ray sensors 1101 discussed with respect to FIG. 11. In otherembodiments, the misalignment can be determined based on one or moresensors configured to detect an angle of the X-ray source. The detectionof a misalignment can comprise determining a type of misalignment insome embodiments. A type of misalignment can comprise an upwardmisalignment, a downward misalignment, a left tilt misalignment, a righttilt misalignment, or a combination thereof, similar to the misalignmentdiscussed with respect to FIGS. 9A-9G.

At operation 1202, a corresponding position of each of a plurality ofcalibration actuators is determined. In various embodiments, one or morecalibration actuators can be included within the calibration systemassembly, each calibration actuator configured to be independentlymoved. The corresponding position of each of the plurality ofcalibration actuators is determined based on the determined misalignmenttype of the fan-out beam of X-rays. Based on the type of misalignment,the determined positions of the calibration actuators can be set tocompensate for the type of misalignment. In various embodiments,determining the position for each of a plurality of calibrationactuators comprises determining a position of a push rod of thecalibration actuators to move the active area of the X-ray detectorassembly to align with the fan-out beam of X-rays. In some embodiments,one or more of the calibration actuators of the plurality of calibrationactuators can be positioned in a first orientation, a secondorientation, or a combination thereof.

At operation 1203 the one or more controllers can set the position ofeach of the plurality of calibration actuators based on the determinedpositions of operation 1202. In various embodiments, setting theposition can comprise extending a push rod of a calibration actuator toa new position corresponding to the determined position for thatcalibration actuator based on the type of misalignment, or retracting apush rod of a calibration actuator to a new position corresponding tothe determined position for that calibration actuator.

At operation 1204, the controller can determine if the fan-out beam ofX-rays is aligned with the active area of the X-ray detector assembly.When aligned, the entire length of the active area will absorb X-rays.In various embodiments, the active area can extend across the backmember of the X-ray detector assembly, and the first member and secondmember connected at obtuse angles to the back member of the X-raydetector assembly. Misalignment can be detected when X-rays are absorbedalong the entire length of the active area, and/or detected by one ormore sensors disposed above and/or below the active area or at the X-raysource. If the fan-out beam of X-rays is determined to be aligned withthe active area, the image data can be received at operation 1206. Ifthe fan-out beam of X-rays is determined not to be aligned, the methodcan go back to operation 1201 and start the calibration process ofmethod 1200 again. In various embodiments, the method 1200 can beperformed iteratively until the misalignment is compensated for byoperation of the calibration system.

Where circuits are implemented in whole or in part using software, inone embodiment, these software elements can be implemented to operatewith a computing or processing system capable of carrying out thefunctionality described with respect thereto. One such example computingsystem is shown in FIG. 8. Various embodiments are described in terms ofthis example-computing system 800. After reading this description, itwill become apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art how toimplement the technology using other computing systems or architectures.

Referring now to FIG. 13, computing system 1300 may represent, forexample, computing or processing capabilities found within desktop,laptop and notebook computers; hand-held computing devices (PDA's, smartphones, cell phones, palmtops, etc.); mainframes, supercomputers,workstations or servers; or any other type of special-purpose orgeneral-purpose computing devices as may be desirable or appropriate fora given application or environment, such as for example, one or more ofthe various components illustrated in FIGS. 1-12 and described herein.

The computer system 1300 includes a bus 1302 or other communicationmechanism for communicating information, one or more hardware processors1304 coupled with bus 1302 for processing information. Hardwareprocessor(s) 1304 may be, for example, one or more general purposemicroprocessors. The computer system 1300 also includes a main memory1308, such as a random access memory (RAM), cache and/or other dynamicstorage devices, coupled to bus 1302 for storing information andinstructions to be executed by processor 130404. Main memory 1308 alsomay be used for storing temporary variables or other intermediateinformation during execution of instructions to be executed by processor1304. Such instructions, when stored in storage media accessible toprocessor 1304, render computer system 1300 into a special-purposemachine that is customized to perform the operations specified in theinstructions.

The computer system 1300 further includes a read only memory (ROM) 1308or other static storage device coupled to bus 1302 for storing staticinformation and instructions for processor 1304. A storage device 1310,such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, or USB thumb drive (Flash drive),etc., is provided and coupled to bus 1302 for storing information andinstructions.

The computer system 1300 may be coupled via bus 1302 to a display 1312,such as a cathode ray tube (CRT) or LCD display (or touch screen), fordisplaying information to a computer user. An input device 1314,including alphanumeric and other keys, is coupled to bus 1302 forcommunicating information and command selections to processor 1304.Another type of user input device is cursor control 1318, such as amouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys for communicating directioninformation and command selections to processor 1304 and for controllingcursor movement on display 1312. This input device typically has twodegrees of freedom in two axes, a first axis (e.g., x) and a second axis(e.g., y), that allows the device to specify positions in a plane. Insome embodiments, the same direction information and command selectionsas cursor control may be implemented via receiving touches on a touchscreen without a cursor.

The computing system 1300 may include a user interface component toimplement a GUI that may be stored in a mass storage device asexecutable software codes that are executed by the computing device(s).This and other components may include, by way of example, components,such as software components, object-oriented software components, classcomponents and task components, processes, functions, attributes,procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware,microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays,and variables.

The computer system 1300 may implement the techniques described hereinusing customized hard-wired logic, one or more ASICs or FPGAs, firmwareand/or program logic which in combination with the computer systemcauses or programs computer system 1300 to be a special-purpose machine.According to one embodiment, the techniques herein are performed bycomputer system 1300 in response to processor(s) 1304 executing one ormore sequences of one or more instructions contained in main memory1308. Such instructions may be read into main memory 1308 from anotherstorage medium. Execution of the sequences of instructions contained inmain memory 1308 causes processor(s) 1304 to perform the process stepsdescribed herein. In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuitry maybe used in place of or in combination with software instructions.

The term “non-transitory media,” and similar terms, as used hereinrefers to any media that store data and/or instructions that cause amachine to operate in a specific fashion. Such non-transitory media maycomprise non-volatile media and/or volatile media. Non-volatile mediaincludes, for example, optical or magnetic disks. Volatile mediaincludes dynamic memory, such as main memory 1308. Common forms ofnon-transitory media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexibledisk, hard disk, solid state drive, magnetic tape, or any other magneticdata storage medium, a CD-ROM, any other optical data storage medium,any physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, and EPROM, aFLASH-EPROM, NVRAM, any other memory chip or cartridge, and networkedversions of the same.

Non-transitory media is distinct from but may be used in conjunctionwith transmission media. Transmission media participates in transferringinformation between non-transitory media. For example, transmissionmedia includes coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, includingthe wires that comprise bus 1302. Transmission media can also take theform of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated duringradio-wave and infra-red data communications.

Various forms of media may be involved in carrying one or more sequencesof one or more instructions to processor 1304 for execution. Forexample, the instructions may initially be carried on a magnetic disk orsolid state drive of a remote computer. The remote computer can load theinstructions into its dynamic memory and send the instructions over atelephone line using a modem. A modem local to computer system 1300 canreceive the data on the telephone line and use an infra-red transmitterto convert the data to an infra-red signal. An infra-red detector canreceive the data carried in the infra-red signal and appropriatecircuitry can place the data on bus 1302. Bus 1302 carries the data tomain memory 1308, from which processor 1304 retrieves and executes theinstructions. The instructions received by main memory 1308 mayretrieves and executes the instructions. The instructions received bymain memory 1308 may optionally be stored on a storage device eitherbefore or after execution by processor 1304.

The computer system 1300 also includes a communication interface 1318coupled to bus 1302. Communication interface 1318 provides a two-waydata communication coupling to one or more network links that areconnected to one or more local networks. For example, communicationinterface 1318 may be an integrated services digital network (ISDN)card, cable modem, satellite modem, or a modem to provide a datacommunication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. Asanother example, network interface 1318 may be a local area network(LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatibleLAN (or WAN component to communicated with a WAN). Wireless links mayalso be implemented. In any such implementation, network interface 1318sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals thatcarry digital data streams representing various types of information.

A network link 1320 typically provides data communication through one ormore networks to other data devices. For example, a network link mayprovide a connection through local network to a host computer 1324 or todata equipment operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) 1328. TheISP 1328 in turn provides data communication services through the worldwide packet data communication network now commonly referred to as the“Internet” 1328. Local network 1322 and Internet 1328 both useelectrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital datastreams. The signals through the various networks and the signals onnetwork link and through communication interface 1318, which carry thedigital data to and from computer system 1300, are example forms oftransmission media.

The computer system 1300 can send messages and receive data, includingprogram code, through the network(s), network link and communicationinterface 1318. In the Internet example, a server 1330 might transmit arequested code for an application program through the Internet 1328, theISP 1328, the local network 1322 and the communication interface 1318.

The received code may be executed by processor 1304 as it is received,and/or stored in storage device 1310, or other non-volatile storage forlater execution.

Other implementations, uses and advantages of the invention will beapparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of thespecification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. Thespecification should be considered exemplary only, and the scope of theinvention is accordingly intended to be limited only by the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system comprising: an X-ray source emitting afan-out beam of X-rays; an X-ray detector assembly detecting the fan-outbeam of X-rays emitted from the X-ray source, the X-ray detectorassembly comprising a back member, a first member, and a second member;a connecting member operatively connecting the X-ray source and theX-ray detector assembly; a translational mechanism moving the X-raysource simultaneously with the X-ray detector assembly while operativelyconnected by the connecting member; a first calibration assemblyoperatively connected to the back member of the X-ray detector assembly;and a second calibration assembly operatively connected to the backmember of the X-ray detector assembly, the first calibration assemblyand the second calibration assembly independently controlling movementof the X-ray detector assembly, respectively, relative to the fan-outbeam of X-rays to achieve alignment of the X-ray source and the X-raydetector assembly.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the back member ofthe X-ray detector assembly comprises a center region of the X-raydetector between the first member and the second member.
 3. The systemof claim 1, wherein the first member of the X-ray detector assembly isattached to a first end of the back member at an obtuse angle.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the second member of the X-ray detectorassembly is attached to a second end of the back member at an obtuseangle.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein prior to the translationalmechanism moving the X-ray source simultaneously with the X-ray detectorassembly, an initial state of the X-ray source relative to the X-raydetector assembly is such that the fan-out beam of X-rays is alignedwith the X-ray detector assembly along a plane of a centered state. 6.The system of claim 1, wherein the first calibration assembly and thesecond calibration assembly comprises: a base plate having a bottomportion and a vertical portion; a lever arm comprising a first portionand a second portion; a calibration actuator comprising a push rod and amotion generator.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the second portionof the lever arm comprises a detector mover disposed on a distal end andconfigured to contact a detector support disposed on a connectingmember-facing surface of the back member of the X-ray detector assembly.8. The system of claim 6, further comprising a first lever arm stop anda second lever arm stop.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the firstlever arm stop comprises a first protrusion extending outward from asurface of the vertical portion, and the second lever arm stop comprisesa second protrusion extending outward from the surface of the verticalportion.
 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the first lever arm stop andthe second lever arm stop are integrated into an opening of the verticalportion of the base plate.
 11. The system of claim 6, furthercomprising: a first slider operatively connected to a first slide trackon a first slide mount associated with the first calibration actuator; asecond slider operatively connected to a second slide track on a secondslide mount associated with the second calibration actuator; a detectorplate operatively connected to the first slider and the second slider;and the detector plate operatively connected to the back member of theX-ray detector assembly.
 12. The system of claim 6, wherein the detectorplate comprises a first detector plate connected to the first slider anda second detector plate connected to the second slider.
 13. The systemof claim 1, further comprising a plurality of calibration assemblies.14. The system of claim 1, wherein the first calibration assembly andthe second calibration assembly are disposed within an interior of theconnecting member.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the firstcalibration assembly is disposed in a first orientation and the secondcalibration assembly is disposed in a second orientation.
 16. The systemof claim 15, wherein the first orientation and the second orientationare a same orientation where a first push rod of the first calibrationassembly and a second push rod of the second calibration assembly areconfigured to extend in a same direction.
 17. The system of claim 1,wherein the first calibration assembly can move a left side of the X-raydetector assembly a distance corresponding to +/−0.5-degrees to20-degrees an angle of the fan-out beam of X-rays from a centered state.18. The system of claim 1, wherein the first calibration assembly andthe second calibration assembly are operatively connected to an interiorsurface of the connecting member and a vertical slide assembly isoperatively connected to an exterior surface of the connecting member.19. The system of claim 1, wherein the calibration actuator of the firstcalibration assembly and the second calibration assembly comprises alinear actuator.
 20. The system of claim 1, wherein the firstcalibration assembly and the second calibration assembly are configuredto provide a leftward tilt, a rightward tilt, an upward motion, adownward motion, or a combination thereof to the X-ray detector assemblyto align an active area of the X-ray detector assembly with the fan-outbeam of X-rays that is non-centered.